Did you know that one of the better meteor showers of the year is coming up?  Have you heard about the latest black hole discovery and image?  Are you aware that this is the last chance to see many of winter’s brightest deep-sky objects until next year, and that Mars is rapidly slipping from our view as well?  Come to the MSU St. Andrews in Midland to learn more!

Families with school-age and older children are invited to an evening of astronomy and observing.  We will begin with a short (< 1 hr) presentation entitled “Meteor Showers.”  We will cover what they are, what causes them, where/when/how to look, and what to expect from the upcoming shower.  Our technology highlight will focus on the “Event Horizon Telescope” and its recent discoveries about black holes.  And, as always, we will show you how to find the planets and other bright objects that are currently in the sky this month.

And, if the skies are clear, we will follow with an observing session using our fine collection of telescopes.  Mars is visible in the early evening sky this month, both by eye and by telescope.  (Mars is much brighter than most stars and can be seen with the unaided eye.)  Plus, winter’s finest galaxies and nebulae are disappearing into the sunset.  Come see them all from MSU St. Andrews!  We have several different types of telescopes for you to look through.

There are always other options to see on Astronomy and Telescope Night.  Many stars and constellations will be visible from our St. Andrews site.  We can help you learn to identify the brighter stars by name, as well as the brighter constellations.  It all depends on what interests our attendees the most!

We are located at 1910 W. St. Andrews, at the next driveway west of the Grace A. Dow Library.  Come see our newly refurbished Alden B. Dow building and grounds.

Date:  Wednesday, April 24, 8 PM, with observing until 10 PM if the skies are clear.  In case of clouds or bad weather, come anyway!  We will still be offering the presentation on meteor showers, what’s in the sky this month, and the Event Horizons Telescope studies on black holes.  Plus, we will answer any general astronomy questions you bring.

Michigan State University programs, activities, and facilities are available to all without regard to race, color, gender, religion, national origin, political persuasion, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, height, weight, veteran status, age or familial status. Please inform us if you need any accommodation for accessibility at (517) 432-4499.