Bucknell Observatory to host Family Night Feb. 9
By: Jayne Ann Bugda
Updated: February 5, 2013
The event, which will be held rain or shine, will focus on activities for
children and their families. It is free and open to the public, sponsored by the
Department of Physics and Astronomy at Bucknell.
Local singer/songwriter Billy Kelly will entertain children with songs about
stars, constellations and other celestial phenomena. Ned Ladd, associate
professor of physics, will present "Rainbow, Prisms and Starlight: the Wonders
of Light," an interactive talk designed for children of all ages.
In addition, children can build their own rainbow-makers and participate in
other star-studded craft activities including a cosmic word search.
The Observatory's telescopes will be open for viewing of the planet Jupiter
and the Great Nebula of Orion as well as other wonders of the deep sky (if skies
are clear). Bucknell astronomy students will be on hand to point out the
constellations visible in the winter sky.
Facilities include the 126-year old Clark refracting telescope and several
modern reflecting telescopes.
The Bucknell Observatory is located on the southern end of the Bucknell
University campus, just south of the Christy Mathewson-Memorial football
stadium. Ample parking is available. Call 570-577-1207 for information.
(from Bucknell University)
