IL: HENDERSON FIELD STARGAZING AND ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION FLY-IN

Celebrate 20 years of the RAF, see results of an RAF grant, and explore some hidden attractions of Southern Illinois and of outer space at Henderson Field (95IL) October 20-22. There will be stargazing, optional tours and a cookout. Pilots must review the Henderson Field safety briefing in the Airfield Guide before flying in.

Optional ground tours are available during the day to visit Garden of the Gods or Cave-in-Rock. These iconic places are just a few miles away and transportation will be arranged for those who register in advance. We can only accomodate a limited number of attendees for the tours, so registration will be capped at 30 people.

The Astronomy Association of Southern Illinois will bring telescopes and several volunteers to help with locating and interpreting celestial bodies in the night sky on Saturday. 

Campers are welcome. Water and toilet facilities are available and use of the airstrip and camping is free. Bring your own tie downs and gear for camping. Camper vans can be accommodated (no hookups) and there are limited AirBnB options nearby. BYO food and drinks; however, if you want to partake of the cookout Saturday evening, please register so we can have enough on hand. A light breakfast Sunday will also be provided.

FRIDAY – Arrive early and enjoy the evening socializing. Dinner is on your own.

SATURDAY – Breakfast and lunch on your own. Ground tours of Garden of the Gods / Cave-in-Rock. (10am & 2pm) $5/person. Cookout optional-Southern Illinois BBQ, sides, and veggies served from the smoker at the campsite, $20/person.

SUNDAY – Light breakfast (coffee & pastry), optional fly-out over SI and old Giant City airstrip.

Stay as long as you want. Please pay upon arrival, cash or check only.

Registration for this event closed on October 16. If you have any questions, or are trying to register after the 16th, please contact Dave Warner: dwarner@theraf.org