Free event Sept. 16 allows guests to experience the night sky through telescopes.
Courtesy
By Zachary-Taylor Wright
sac-ranger@alamo.edu
Scobee Education Center will host a telescope viewing of the harvest moon, Mars and Saturn from 8-9 p.m. Friday at the Scalan Foundation Observatory.
The Harvest Moon Star Party, which is free and open to all ages, will take place on the Powell Star Deck, terrace and roof surrounding Scobee.
Platforms allow astronomy volunteers and visitors to have access to the rooftop for a better view, said Rick Varner, senior director of Scobee.
Free parking, so long as it is not reserved for faculty or staff, is available in Lot 21, Lot 29 and the parking garage on North Main Avenue, according to the Scobee website.
Varner said prior knowledge of astronomy is not required to attend the event, as volunteers from this college’s astronomy department and the San Antonio Astronomical Association will speak about sights they have spotted.
Guests might enjoy bringing astronomy books, a music source, an umbrella, snacks, water and bug repellent to any star party, the association recommends on its website.
Varner suggests visitors pack snacks if they plan to bring small children as there will be no concessions. Restrooms will be available.
Sunset is estimated to arrive around 7:40 p.m. and weather changes may influence the success of the event.
Varner said telescopes will not be used if it rains.
Scobee Planetarium is closed until Sept. 30, but the establishment is pursuing astronomical activities outside of the facility.
For more information, visit the Scobee Facebook page or call 210-486-0100