CAS Dark Sky Site
The Cumberland Astronomical Society has established an observing site at
Bledsoe's Fort Historical Park on State Highway 25 in Castalian Springs.
This site is used for club parties, and other amateur astronomers are welcome. The CAS hosts public parties at the Lock Four Park
(Sumner County Park) on Old Hickory Lake in Gallatin. Check the CAS
event calendar for times and directions.
Driving Directions
- From Gallatin:
- Drive east on State Route 25 (Hartsville Pike) for about 5½ miles to the Bledsoe Creek bridge.
- About one mile past the bridge, you will pass Castalian Springs Community Center (a small brick school building) at the corner of SR-25 and Hilton Lane.
- Continue about 250 yards past the Community Center and look carefully for a cinder road on the left with a large metal gate.
- From Lebanon:
- Drive north on State Route 20 (US-231) for about 12 miles, then turn left on State Route 25 (Hartsville Pike).
- Drive 4.1 miles (0.4 miles past the intersection with Rock Springs Road) and look carefully for a cinder road on the right with a large metal gate.
- ...and from the entrance:
- The gate is usually open (and always open for star parties), so drive in.
- The cinder road turns immediately to the right, then follows the bluff for about 200 yards before curving to the left. About 250 yards farther there is a picnic pavilion and a sign that reads "no unauthorized vehicles beyond this point." Star party attendees are authorized, so dim your lights and keep going.
- After another 200 yards, turn left onto a mown area in the field. The observing field is the clearing at the end of that area.
- Park near the other attendees' vehicles and set up. Be sure to introduce yourself around, and thank the CAS folk for their hospitality!
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