Thousands of stars were on display as the Ogden Astronomical Society held its first public star party of the season on Antelope Island in April. For more than 50 years, the OAS has gathered stargazing enthusiasts, excited about learning and exploring the universe. 

Members of OAS brought dozens of telescopes so attendees could look into the galaxy. Unclouded skies allowed clear views highlighting the main attractions at the event including Jupiter (encircled by four of its largest moons), the Big Dipper, the Andromeda Galaxy (which is 2.537 million light-years from Earth) and close-up shots of the moon.

OAS President Ben Sant said interest in the group’s star parties has grown over the last couple of years. In the past, 40 to 50 people would attend but that number has increased to 400-500 attendees, eager to see the stars.

“We want everyone to be inspired and educated and to notice the things that are right above their heads,” Sant said. “If we can get someone to realize what’s above them, and to see it, that’s a win. It’s a lot of fun. It’s a passion.”

Most OAS members are lifelong astronomical fans. Lee Priest regularly attends star party events and shares memories of looking at the stars as a child, contemplating the vastness of space. He’s been an OAS member for 30 years and is known for being able to find the best shots of galaxies and planets. 

Ron Vanderhule, a founding member of OAS, brought his homemade telescope and people lined up to get a view of the moon and the stars through his lens. As the Earth rotated, telescopes had to be adjusted constantly to keep the celestial bodies in view. Attendees enjoyed viewing the skies through different scopes and learning about the universe from members of OAS. 

“It’s about looking at something much bigger than us,” said party attendee Carissa Burris. “It puts everything into perspective about how small we really are.”

OAS holds monthly star parties through October, usually around the new moon when the sky is darkest. The next event is Saturday, May 11, from 6-10 p.m. at the White Rock campground on Antelope Island. 

Membership in OAS costs $20 per year and includes private events like campouts and stargazing opportunities, but all public events are free. For more information, visit Ogden-astronomy.org.

“We want to create a community of like-minded people who want to educate and raise interest,” Sant said. “We invite anyone to come out and find out what we’re all about.”