Legends of the Zodiac at Hobbs State Park

Viewing the night sky on a beautiful October night is always a treat, but have you ever wondered what stories the constellations tell us?  Knowing what they did and how they got into the night sky is fascinating.
     The following is an example of how the constellation stories interact:  Orion, the Hunter, said to be the tallest and most beautiful of men, was boastful.  He was said to have claimed dominion over every living creature.  Hera sent the Scorpion to punish his arrogance. The Scorpion stung Orion thereby killing him. Nevertheless, Orion was honored in death by being placed in the heavens. The Scorpion was placed in the opposite side of the heavens so that the two will never meet again thereby protecting Orion from further danger.

     Chiron, an educated, civilized centaur placed the centaur Sagittarius, the Archer, in the sky to help guide, Jason and his Argonauts on their voyage to Thessaly. Part of the Archer’s job is to avenge the death of Orion. For this reason the arrow of the archer is aimed toward Antares, the heart of the Scorpion.

     Join Stuart Riley, PhD in astronomy, as you explore how the constellations in our night sky reveal interesting, elaborate and sometimes conflicting stories.
 

What to Bring: 
Flashlight (covered with a red cloth or red balloon)
Binoculars and/or telescope (if you have)
Folding chair – one per person`
Water + snacks

Where:  Hobbs State Park – Conservation Area visitor center on Hwy 12 just east of the Hwy 12/War Eagle Road intersection
Dates:    Friday October 4, 2013
Time:    6:30 p.m.  Lecture    7:30 p.m. night viewing
Cost:      FREE:  Registration not required
  For more information call:  479-789-5000
     To learn more about upcoming Friends of Hobbs speakers and other park programs, go to the web site: http://www.friendsofhobbs.com