October 11, 2006

HCC and Howard Astronomical League host viewing of the fall constellations, galaxies, nebulae, star clusters and moon

(Columbia, MD) – A free public viewing of the moon’s surface features, fall constellations, Andromeda galaxy, nebulae, and star clusters will be held on Friday, October 27 from 6 – 9 p.m. on the picnic grounds of Belmont Conference Center.  The event is hosted by the Howard Community College (HCC) Science Department, HCC Office of Student Life, and Howard Astronomical League.  Belmont Conference Center is located at 6555 Belmont Woods Road, Elkridge, Maryland 21027.  For directions and event details, visit  www.howardcc.edu/science/viewthestars.cfm; for weather postponement, check the Howard Astronomical League (HAL) website www.howardastro.org/skywatch.htm or call HCC Professor of Physical Science Russ Poch at 410-772-4891.  Rain/cloud date is October 28.

Come early to view a projected image of the crescent moon’s craters, mare (seas), highlands, and more.  There will be an illustrated presentation on our celestial neighbors (galaxies, nebulae and star clusters) followed by viewing through telescopes of each of these neighbors.  See Andromeda, the spiral galaxy like our own.  Marvel at the Dumbbell, Ring, and Blinking Star nebula.  View up close the famed double cluster by Perseus as well as the Wild Duck and Owl Clusters.  Point out the easy to find Great Square of Pegasus constellation. 

Viewing will be available through approximately 20 telescopes on the spacious Belmont picnic grounds. Astronomy faculty and amateur astronomers will be available to assist in the observation and answer questions.  Although telescopes will be set up, viewers are encouraged to bring their own binoculars and small telescopes.  Bring a flashlight to help you see your way around the darkened grounds.  Warm dress is advised.

Sky Watch Schedule:

6 – 6:40 p.m.   See projected view (as well as through telescopes) of lunar surface features

6:40 – 7 p.m.   Presentation on celestial neighbors (galaxies, nebulae and star clusters)

7 – 8 p.m.        Hands-on help in locating fall constellations

7 – 9 p.m.        View celestial neighbors through different telescopes