The Eastern Upper Peninsula is a haven for stargazers. With some 4.2 million acres of forest land in the area, there is hardly any light pollution to detract from the stars in the quiet night sky. The northern lights can often be spotted in the area as well. Below the bridge, Mackinaw City is home to Headlands International Dark Sky Park. With over 500 acres of pristine woodlands, two miles of undeveloped Lake Michigan shoreline, and the Waterfront Event Center, the Headlands is a must-visit destination. Access is typically free, though on some busy nights (meteor showers, aurora sightings) and for scheduled events, there may be a fee. Find out more by visiting www.midarkskypark.org.
In and around St. Ignace, the best stargazing will be in areas with a clear view of the horizon, such as a field or body of water. Even in downtown St. Ignace, light pollution is minimal enough to allow for clear star visibility on a cloudless night.
For those looking to catch sight of the aurora borealis, a northern-facing view is optimal. Predicting when the aurora borealis will be visible is difficult and can only be done one to two days in advance. Check the KP index provided by NOAA to find the latest information regarding geomagnetic activity.
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