Fall 2013 Observatory Viewing Sessions Set at UW-River Falls

Sept. 24, 2013--The University of Wisconsin-River Falls Physics Department begins its fall season of free, public observatory viewings and astronomy discussions on Oct. 8.  

The first stargazing session on Tuesday, Oct. 8, beings with a talk, "Solar Max 2013:  Where Did It Go?" by physics Professor Eileen Korenic at 8 p.m. in 271 Centennial Science Hall. Then, if the night is clear, a telescope viewing session will follow at 8:30 p.m. on the third floor observation deck. 

A faculty member and/or student will staff each telescope and be available to answer questions. Objects to be seen in the telescopes include planets, globular clusters, open clusters, nebulae, galaxies, moons, and double stars.   

To verify that the sky is clear enough for viewing, call 715-425-3560 after 6 p.m. or visit www.uwrf.edu/PHYS/Schedule.cfm. The talks, set for 8 p.m., will go on as scheduled regardless of the weather.  

Since the viewing dome is unheated and the observation deck is outside, visitors should dress appropriately for the weather. The viewings and talks are suitable for all ages.  

Other viewings this fall include:  

Tuesday, Nov. 5, at 8 p.m., "Henges and Megaliths and Cairns, Oh My!: Astronomical Structures in Great Britain" presented by student Anthony Tumbarello in 271 Centennial Science Hall, followed by the 8:30 p.m. telescope viewing on the third floor observatory deck.  

Wednesday, Dec. 4, at 8 p.m., "The Star of Bethlehem" presented by Korenic in 271 Centennial Science Hall, followed by the 8:30 p.m. telescope viewing on the third floor observatory deck.  

For more information about the observatory, email glenn.spiczack@uwrf.edu or about pre-observatory talks, email eileen.korenic@uwrf.edu.