Views of the Early Spring Night Sky – featuring Jupiter at New Pond Farm

Views of the Early Spring Night Sky – featuring Jupiter

 

 

The Discovery Center at Ridgefield, in conjunction with the New Pond Farm Observatory, 101 Marchant Rd., West Redding, is hosting an astronomy program that is open to the public on Saturday, April 1^st, starting at 7:45 P.M. Jupiter will be featured with the numerous moons that circle this magnificent planet.

The focus will be on majestic Jupiter and its brilliant moons which have taken the stage in the early evening.The Moon will again be an exciting target for viewing and possibly taking photos with your smartphone. Other celestial objects will be in view, including the early spring constellations, nebulae, and galaxy and star clusters. Join us as we explore the vastness of the universe above us.

At 7:15 P.M., there will be an optional mini-lesson for participants, especially children, to better understand what they will be viewing. This will take place in the classroom and is included in the price of the program.  Viewing of the night sky will be held on Astronomy Hill at 7:45 PM.

Participants should dress warmly and bring a flashlight for the walk from the parking area to the observatory. They may also want to bring binoculars.

The program is $4 per person for Discovery Center members, with a maximum of $16 per family. For nonmembers, the charge is $6 per person, with a maximum of $24 per family. Registration is required. Visit the Discovery Center web site to register (http://www.ridgefielddiscovery.org/) or call 203-438-1063. If it looks as if the skies might be cloudy, check the web site after 4:00 PM for program status.