Astronomy Program at New Pond Farm in Redding on February 24

Moon, winter constellations and Orion nebula

The Discovery Center at Ridgefield and New Pond Farm Observatory, 101 Marchant Rd., West Redding, are offering a public astronomy program on Saturday, February 24th, starting at 7:00 PM. The main program will be preceded by an optional discussion of objects to be viewed, which will take place in the Learning Center classroom at 6:30 PM. This pre-session will give participants, especially children, a better understanding of what they will be viewing during the live observing session.

During the live observing session, participants will see craters, mountains and “seas” on the 9-day-old Moon with shadows to enhance observing.  They will also view the Orion nebula, star clusters, and galaxies beyond our Milky Way. Astronomers will point out and discuss the winter constellations of Orion and his hunting dogs, Canis Major and Minor, the Gemini Twins, Taurus the Bull and Auriga the Charioteer. Attendees with smartphones can try their hand at taking a photo of the Moon through a telescope.

Participants should dress warmly and bring a flashlight for the walk to the observatory. There is a warming building next to the telescopes. The program is $4 for Discovery Center members, with a maximum of $16 per family. For nonmembers, the charge is $6, with a maximum $24 per family. Registration is required at http://www.ridgefielddiscovery.org/) or by calling 203-438-1063. If the skies appear cloudy, check the website after 4:00 PM for program status.

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Submitted by Redding, CT

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