GalileoScope Workshop and Night Viewing

GalileoScope Workshop and Night Viewing at Hobbs Saturday December 6th

Hobbs State Park – Conservation Area is offering a unique hands-on Astronomy workshop, Saturday December 6, 2014 beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the park’s visitor center on Hwy 12 just east of the Hwy 12/ War Eagle Road intersection.  Participants will build their own full-scale working model of the telescope used by Galileo over 400 years ago.  The workshop is for those 10 years and up, and has proven to be an enriching family experience and pre-Christmas treat.  The easy-to-understand workshop will be taught by Katherine Auld, who teaches astronomy at Northwest Arkansas Community College. 

Auld’s astronomy background is extensive.  Her doctoral dissertation in Space and Planetary Science with an emphasis in planetary geomorphology studied the formation processes of gullies on the Martian surface.  As a member of the Sugar Creek Astronomical Society, Katherine helps with local star parties.  As a Solar System Ambassador with NASA/JPL, she has given presentations on astronomy, astronautics, physics, geology, environmental science, and careers in science to groups ranging from elementary to junior high classes, after school programs, home school associations, and libraries in the surrounding communities.  She is also deeply involved in Boy Scouts, leading a Venture Crew in Bella Vista and teaching many of the science-based merit badges to local Scouts.

Night sky viewing will begin following the workshop if the skies are clear.  All participants are asked to bring:  a tripod for their Galileoscope, one folding chair per person, binoculars, and flashlights with the lenses covered either with red cloth or a red balloon. 

When:   Saturday December 6, 2014       6:30 p.m.
Where:  Hobbs State Park – Conservation Area visitor center located on Hwy. 12 just east of the Hwy. 12/War Eagle Road intersection
Cost:    $35.00 + tax: Includes one Galileo Scope and complete instructions for up to 4 people in a group.  $5.00 additional for each person over the 4-person limit.  Workshop space is limited.  Call to make reservations.  479-789-5000