Evening of Astronomy programs consist of a free presentation that begins at 7:00 p.m., as well as live observing that continues throughout the evening in the Apollo Observatory (weather permitting).

Upcoming Evening of Astronomy Topics:

February 15: Unlocking the Secrets of Mercury
Mercury, closest planet to the Sun, will linger in the evening sky the longest after sunset for 2013 on Saturday, February 16. Be amazed at the planet’s discoveries made with NASA’s MESSENGER mission to Mercury.

March 15: Globe At Night
Images of the Earth from space show a vast amount of night lighting escaping into space. Learn how proper lighting can increase visibility, decrease energy costs, and how to participate in the worldwide program, Globe at Night.

April 19: Exploring Exoplanets
Discover how planets have been detective in orbit around other starts of our Milky Way Galaxy

May 17: A Cluster of Planets
Take a closer look at our solar system’s planets and understand why Mercury, Venus, and Jupiter will appear clustered together shortly after sunset May 25th – 27th.

June 21:  The Life Cycle of Stars
On this summer solstice we will examine our star, the Sun, and how it and other stars change over time.

July 19:  The Perseids Peak Soon
Let’s consider the annual meteor showers, why they occur and which comets are associated with each one such as the Perseid Meteor Shower occurring in mid-August.  Learn which comets have had historical significance and what is the original source of comets.

August 16:  Venus, Mars, the Moon, and a Star Cluster to Observe
Take home starmaps indicating where to view with binoculars in the evening of September 8th Venus alongside the Moon with star Spica and then the morning of September 9th Mars passing in front of the open star cluster, M44, known as the Beehive or Praesepe.

September 20:  Moon Facts
In the light of the waning gibbous Moon, investigate moon phases, eclipses, tides, and how to participate in International Observe the Moon Night October 12, 2013.

 
November 15:  Telescope Pointers
Take the opportunity to examine a variety of telescopes, ask questions, and gain a better understanding of what qualities to look for when considering a telescope purchase.  Enter a free drawing for a Galileoscope 50-mm f/10 refractor kit.

December 20:  Solstices and Equinoxes
Gain a better understanding of the cause of our seasons as the winter solstice arrives Saturday, December 21st. laxy.