State parks throughout Michigan will stay open late next month giving guests the opportunity to explore the night sky.

The extended hours are part of International Dark Sky Week 2017, a celebration held each year around Earth Day and Astronomy Day.

It draws attention to the problems associated with light pollution and promotes simple solutions available to mitigate it. This year it will take place April 22-28.

Seven Michigan state parks have been designated as Dark Sky Preserves by the Michigan Legislature, but more than 20 will have extended hours during Dark Sky Week.

Headlands Dark Sky Park, an Emmet County park, is the only internationally designated Dark Sky Park in the state

Visitors should call ahead for individual park hours and are encouraged to bring a blanket, sit back and take in the sights.

Many of the events are free to attend, but a Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry.

Here is a look at the parks participating this year: