Free July Astronomy Program and Night Viewing

 Six times a year the Sugar Creek Astronomical Society presents a Beginning Astronomy class followed by Night Sky Viewing at Hobbs State Park – Conservation Area.  The next free public astronomy program is Saturday July 27th.
     According to Jack McDaniel, president of the Sugar Creek Astronomical Society, “The July sky is ablaze with ancient signposts: the Northern Cross, the Summer Triangle, and the easily recognizable constellation Cygnus the Swan. The Milky Way runs through Cygnus and features several beautiful open star clusters and one of the most famous double star systems, Albireo.  On the southern horizon, the constellation Scorpius will be very identifiable to the naked eye.  The angry “eye” of the Scorpion is the red giant star Antares.  Nearby, we can easily identify the Teapot which is part of the constellation Sagittarius.  Star clusters abound in these areas and our telescopes will pick them out.”     With the Sugar Creek Society’s powerful telescopes, the public will also observe the Ring Nebula in the constellation Lyra.  The nebula was formed by the death throes of a star similar to our own Sun.

     The “star “of the show for the evening will be Saturn, its rings, and major moons.  McDaniel added, “Saturn is a spectacular sight you will not want to miss!  Our Beginning Astronomy program begins at 7:30 pm and includes finding your way around the night sky and night sky observing, the Constellation of the Month, and a special presentation. Observation using binoculars, telescopes and the naked eye will begin shortly after sunset: around 8:30.  Bring the family and enjoy the summer night sky at Hobbs!”
     What to Bring: 
Flashlight (covered with a red cloth or red balloon)
Binoculars and/or telescope (if you have)
Folding chair – one per person`
Star chart (if you have one)

When:  Saturday July 27, 2013
             7:30 p.m. – Beginning astronomy class
              8:30 p.m. – Night sky observation
              (View the night sky through the Sugar Creek Astronomy Society’s high-
              powered telescopes.)
            
Where:  Hobbs State Park – Conservation Area visitor center located on Hwy 12 just
               east of the Hwy 12/War Eagle Road intersection

Cost:  FREE

Great family fun!  Great Girl and Boy Scout experience!   For more information call:  479-789-5000