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Observatory Session Set

APRIL 22, 2005--The UW-River Falls physics department offers its final observatory viewing of the spring season on May 2-5 from 9:30 to 11 p.m. on the third floor of Centennial Science Hall.

The stargazing session is free and open to the public. The observatory session includes a brief, introductory talk by physics Professor Eileen Korenic, who will highlight a recent astronomical news or provide an in-depth look at one or more of the objects visible that night. The discussion will be held in Room 271 of Centennial Science Hall.

During this viewing, Jupiter and Saturn will still be visible, along with their large moons. Also, stargazers can choose from a smorgasbord of other prominent Messier, Caldwell and NGC objects.

All observatory viewings are scheduled on clear nights only, Monday-Thursday. For daily weather updates, call 715/425-3560 or visit www.uwrf.edu/physics/obsviewtime.

About the Observatory
The UW-RF Observatory houses a 16-inch Meade computer-controlled LX200GPS Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope, which arrived in October 2003. The Physics Department also owns two 12-inch Meade LX200 telescopes that are usually mounted on the observing deck during public stargazing sessions.

Viewers can expect to see a selection of deep sky objects, such as galaxies, nebulae and star clusters. Saturn, one of the most impressive sights of all, will be the only prominent moon or planet of our solar system to be seen above the horizon during the upcoming sessions.

It is often best to arrive sometime after the start of an observing session to avoid waiting in line. In addition to the main telescope under the dome, one or two smaller telescopes will be set up on the observing deck.

A physics department faculty member, student or guest astronomer will staff each telescope and be available to answer any questions. Observers are encouraged to stay and look at as many elements as possible and feel free to request personal observing targets.

Since the dome is unheated and the observing deck is outside in the open air, guests are advised to dress appropriately for the weather.

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Last updated: Tuesday, 22-Jun-2010 16:21:23 CDT