Spring 2009 Astronomy Public Viewing
Experience the wonders of the celestial sphere! The faculty of Western Kentucky University's Physics and Astronomy Department offer the public an opportunity to observe the heavens through the telescope on tthe roof of Thompson Complex, Central Wing (TCCW). An indoor program will be presented if weather conditions do not permit observing. Meet in the lobby of Thompson Complex, Central Wing (next to Hardin Planetarium). Please dress warmly, standing around outside in dark can be very chilling. There is no charge for participation . Children twelve years of age and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Upcoming dates:
Wednesday, February 11 at 7:00pm
Wednesday, March 11 at 8:00pm
Wednesday, April 8 at 8:00pm
On Wednesday, February 11 at 7:00pm we will discuss the immense distances to the planets, star clusters, nebulae, and galaxies visible in the winter evening sky. Targets include Venus, the Orion Nebula and our large neighbor galaxy in the constellation Andromeda.
At 8:00pm on Wednesday, March 11 Venus will be setting toward the western horizon as Saturn rises in the east. Daylight Saving Time now begins on the second Sunday in March.
The nearly full moon will dominate the evening sky for the Wednesday, April 8 at 8:00pm allowing us to view its craters and to discuss the plans for humans to return to the Moon.
On Wednesday, May 13 at 8:30pm we will focus the telescope on double star systems, clusters of stars, and other deep sky wonders around the constellations Leo and Virgo.
For further information contact: Western Kentucky University, Dept of Physics and Astronomy, (270) 745-4357.