In celebration of 2026 International Dark Sky Week, the Maria Mitchell Association, Nantucket Conservation Foundation, and Nantucket Lights invite our island community to an unforgettable evening of stargazing at Altar Rock in the Middle Moors. This free, family-friendly event, set for 7:30 to 9 pm on April 16, 2026, provides a rare opportunity to experience Nantucket at night and gain a deeper appreciation for the environmental significance of dark skies and how to preserve them.
Guided by expert stargazers, attendees will explore the night sky — constellations and celestial wonders — in a pristine, low-light environment. This collaborative community event presents an ideal opportunity to connect with nature, engage with like-minded individuals, and be inspired by the beauty of the night. Due to limited capacity, advance registration is required at https://support.nantucketconservation.org/site/Calendar?id=102461&view=Detail
Free parking will be available along Altar Rock Road, with volunteers on hand to guide attendees to the event site. Carpooling is strongly encouraged.
The event is open to all ages, but to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, children must be accompanied by at least one adult. Attendees are encouraged to dress appropriately for current weather conditions and wear comfortable footwear, as the event will involve a short walk up to Altar Rock. For added comfort, we recommend bringing blankets or chairs.
International Dark Sky Week, April 13 to 20, 2026 is a global initiative of DarkSky International to celebrate the dark and natural night sky, raise awareness about light pollution, and promote the use of environmentally responsible outdoor lighting. This is held annually during the week of the new moon in April.
The Nantucket Conservation Foundation owns, protects, and stewards more than 9,000 acres of land and coastal shoreline, conserves Nantucket’s rare and significant natural resources, and engages in impactful ecological research to inform resource management and further our knowledge of Nantucket’s unique ecosystems and species. Through these efforts, the Foundation aims to maintain Nantucket’s unique ecosystems and natural beauty for future generations.
Nantucket Lights is an all-volunteer citizen advocacy group committed to preserving and protecting Nantucket’s nighttime environment and heritage of dark skies by raising awareness about light pollution on the island and advocating for environmentally responsible outdoor lighting.
The Maria Mitchell Association was founded in 1902 to preserve the legacy of Nantucket native astronomer, naturalist, librarian, and educator, Maria Mitchell. After she discovered a comet in 1847, Mitchell’s international fame led to many achievements and awards, including an appointment as the first female professor of astronomy at Vassar College. Maria Mitchell believed in “learning by doing” and today that philosophy is reflected in the MMA’s mission statement, programs, research projects, and other activities. The Maria Mitchell Association operates two observatories, a natural science museum, an aquarium, a research center, and preserves the historic birthplace of Maria Mitchell. A wide variety of science and history-related programming is offered throughout the year for people of all ages.