Departing from Ely, Nevada, the historic Great Basin Star Train takes passengers east of Ely to a light-pollution-free location to experience the rare beauty of the starry night sky. Trains are pulled by vintage diesel locomotives and depart at dusk so passengers can watch the sun set over Steptoe Valley. The train cars have restrooms, wheelchair access, and light refreshments are available.
Upon arrival, passengers will have about 2 hours to immerse themselves in one of the darkest skies in the lower 48 states. You may wonder: "Where can I see in this darkness?" Don't worry, because you will be accompanied by enthusiastic astronomy guides and state-of-the-art telescopes, ensuring to bring you the most complete and unforgettable stargazing experience.
Passengers will be guided by astronomy guides to look behind with telescopes.
After reaching the stars, the Great Basin Star Train takes passengers back to Ely to spend the night in the train station's bunk rooms, or to rest on the train cars.
The train operates from May to September on select Fridays. This summer’s tickets are sold out, but summer 2020 tickets will go on sale this fall. Tickets cost $41 for adults 13 and older and $20 for children 4 to 12. If you choose to stay overnight in a train cabin or shelter in Ely, it will cost $60 per person.
The Great Basin Star Train takes passengers on a picturesque tour of the starry night sky.
According to a 2016 report, 99% of people in the United States and Europe do not experience the natural night sky. Star Train aims to show visitors what our ancestors saw when they looked up at the sky each night.
For those looking to continue stargazing in the area, Great Basin National Park, 65 miles east of Ely, is a perfect place to do so. It was designated an International Dark Sky Park in 2016 and hosts regular stargazing events and an annual Astronomy Festival. In 2019, the festival runs from September 26 to 28.
In fact, the International Dark-Sky Association has designated 70 Great Basin-like parks around the world to protect the night sky from light pollution. There are currently 47 in the United States, including Death Valley National Park, Joshua Tree in California, and Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona.
NOTE SOME RULES WHEN PARTICIPATING IN THE ASTRONAUTICAL PROGRAM:
- Do not use white light (flashlight or cell phone) during the show. Red light is allowed.
- No smoking, drinking alcohol or bringing any pets to the show.
- Bring a camp chair so you can comfortably enjoy the night sky.
- Dress in layers in case it gets cold at night, even in summer.
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