Observatory viewings

The UW-River Falls Physics Department began its spring season of free, public observatory viewings and astronomy talks on Feb. 4. Objects to be seen in the telescopes include planets, globular clusters, open clusters, nebulae, galaxies, moons and double stars.

All observatory viewings are dependent on a clear sky. Please call 715-425-3560 after 6 p.m. or visit uwrf.edu/PHYS/Schedule.cfm and click on “Observatory” to verify that the sky is clear enough for viewing. The talk will go on as scheduled regardless of the weather.

A Physics Department faculty member and/or student will staff each telescope and be available to answer questions at each open telescope session. Observers are encouraged to stay and look at as many elements as possible and to request personal observing targets.

Since the dome is unheated and the observation deck is outside and open to the elements, visitors are advised to dress appropriately for the weather. The viewings and talks are suitable for all ages.

Other talks and viewings this semester include:

• Tuesday, March 4, at 8 p.m., “Happy Fat Tuesday! How Astronomy Determines Easter” presented by Korenic in Room 271 Centennial Science Hall and then at 8:30 p.m. telescope viewing (waxing crescent moon) on the third floor observatory deck.
• Wednesday, April 2, at 8 p.m., “Lagrange Points--Astronomy’s Balancing Act” presented by Korenic in Room 271 Centennial Science Hall and then at 8:30 p.m. telescope viewing (waxing crescent moon) on the third floor observatory deck. Email glenn.spiczack@uwrf.edu for more information about the observatory or eileen.korenic@uwrf.edu for more information about the astronomy talks.