(This will be an "Individual Event".  Each family will coordinate their own logisitics. Due to limited parking at Bear's Den, this is limited to 10 families/cars.) 

You’ve probably heard about the comet on the news. Well here’s another good reason (and good opportunity) to see it.

Come join me, our Troop 58 and local cubscout pack 1158 for the best chances to see the comet Neowise (a once in a lifetime event). I’ll bring some Astronomy knowledge and maybe even break out a game of “are-you-smarter-than-a-cubscout?”. If you have any background in Astronomy or have astronomy-themed-humor, please be prepared to, er, shine (shine like, a celestial object of your choice)😊

There are two venues and two dates!

· First venue – The weather report looks most promising on Saturday @Bear’s_Den.

· Second venue – The weather report looks pretty good (all things considered) on Sunday @One_Loudoun

It’s going to be pretty late for some kiddos. I suggest they get a healthy nap!  I know I will.

FIRST VENUE – BEAR’S DEN – This Saturday

Bears Den (a mountain scenic overlook ~30 minutes from here)

Bear’s Den is a classy mountain scenic view with nice elevation. The attendants at Bear's Den have granted us special after-hours access to the site. Since it will be getting dark and we will be on boulders, you’ll need to keep with your scout to ensure they are safe. We can’t have anyone rambunctious at this event. You’ll need to hike in about 200 yards from the parking lot to the scenic overlook.

Basic Details

· This Saturday (7/18/2020)

· 9:00-10:30ish pm

· Bears Den

· 18393 Blue Ridge Mountain Rd, Bluemont, VA 20135

· 34 minute drive from Ashburn Elementary School (may want to get there 15 min early)

· We’ll meet at 9:05pm to hike to the scenic overlook (near the boulders)

You should definitely bring:

· Flashlight for each person in your family (with adequate batteries)

· Bug spray

· A bit of water

· A signed activity consent (more will be available at the location).

· A face covering

· Class B uniform

· A cushion/blanket to sit on (to soften the bolder)

I’d suggest you also bring, if you can:

· An evening snack

· Binoculars

· Camera (with tripod) (with telephoto lense)

· A smartphone with an astronomy app like Starmap or SkyView (both are free)

· A well rested scout (may I suggest they have napped?)