Scoping Out The Stars

Photo by Dave Knapp

Star Party Coming Saturday

“The cosmos is within us. We are made of star-stuff. We are a way for the universe to know itself.”- Carl Sagan, Cosmos

By Ken De Laat

I can’t recall the first time someone pointed out a constellation to me, but to this day when I look at the night sky my eyes focus in on these magical gatherings of stars. Sometimes I think about the ancients who were captivated by the cavalcade of lights that appeared at night. The Dippers (aka Bears, Ursa maj. & min.), Orion, Virgo, Scorpio, 7 sisters and others are like old friends in the sky.
It’s all part of a fascination so many of us have with the vastness of the skies above us. The first time seeing a planet through a telescope is not just awe inspiring but addictive as well, bringing just enough of the mysteries space holds to pique one’s interest.
The S.F. Wessling Observatory hosts Star Parties at their location up at the Kropscott Farm and they have one this Saturday June 17  beginning around 9:30 pm. One of the cool things they do is encourage folks to bring their own equipment whether it be a set of binocs or that telescope you’ve been promising to set up but haven’t found the right time to do so yet.

Here’s the skinny from the Dark Sky folks:
​
Planned viewing for the evening will be...
- The Northern Cross.
- Venus and Mars in the western sky.
- Various star clusters.
- Other Messier objects (Galaxies and nebulae).
- And, always a visitor favorite - The Constellation Tour for June!
Evening temps are forecast to be in the mid-50's range, so it may still be a bit chilly for some folks. Just in case, it's good to bring a few extra layers with you (i.e. - a few long-sleeved shirts, a warm jacket).
*** Any club members or visitors who have their own equipment (telescopes and/or binoculars) are encouraged to bring their setups. So feel free to bring your toys to share with everyone!
*** PLEASE NOTE: Observatory viewing is subject to cancellation due to cloudy skies/rain. However, sometimes we still offer an inside program during inclement weather, so please keep tabs on the page!
*** At the time of this post, there is a 40% chance of rain for the Fremont area that night, w/ clouds throughout the day.
However - as usual - we'll be monitoring the weather and announce any changes, cancellations, or updates here should observing conditions turn sour.
Admission for the evening is:
Adults - $5.00
17 and younger - $2.00
Kids under five - FREE
(Please stop by the Science Building *FIRST* to sign in - - All proceeds go toward the maintenance and improvement of the observatory and Kropscott Farm property).
The Dark Sky Astronomers crew look forward to viewing the night sky with ALL of you on Sat. June 17!
Until then...

S.F. Wessling Observatory.-Drone photo by James Maike