New Milford, Connecticut, USA - (860) 354-1595 - contact@mccarthyobservatory.org
Please click on one of links below or a button above to proceed into our site.
 |
||
|
Second Saturday Stars August 9, 2008
Come visit us on Saturday, August 9th from 8:00 to 10:00 PM for our monthly Second Saturday Stars event. This month's classroom program will feature Parker Moreland's presentation on Nebulae. Until about a century ago, the meaning of the term nebula was very different from the way astronomers use the word today. It included objects we now call galaxies and star clusters, among others. As our knowledge has grown, our terminology has become more precise. The huge gas and dust clouds that we now call nebulae are understood to be signposts to the birth, and death, of stars. Join us to see some of the amazing images of nebula that are being obtained by both earth- and space-based telescopes, and learn about their interpretation. We will also demonstrate how to use the new, free Microsoft® computer program WorldWide Telescope to examine these and other astronomical images at home. If we have clear skies for observing, we will be focusing on Jupiter, the Moon, the summer constellations, the Milky Way, and other objects of interest. As usual, the large 16" observatory telescope will be used by our visitors, along with several volunteer telescopes and binoculars on the SkyDeck adjacent to the observatory building. In addition to the comfortable and handicapped (HC) accessible setting on the SkyDeck, we are now able to offer our visitors HC restroom accommodations. The observatory is located on the grounds of New Milford High School on Rte. 7 in New Milford. Enter the high school grounds from Larson Rd., drive to the southwest corner and park in the lot in front of the observatory. Bring questions (and binoculars); we hope to see you there! PREVIEW OF COMING ATTRACTIONS: Sept. 13 -- The International Space Station |
2009 has been named The International Year of Astronomy (IYA2009) and will be a global celebration of astronomy and its contributions to society and culture, highlighted by the 400th anniversary of the first use of an astronomical telescope by Galileo Galilei. The aim of the Year is to stimulate worldwide interest, especially among young people, in astronomy and science under the central theme “The Universe, Yours to Discover”. IYA2009 events and activities will promote a greater appreciation of the inspirational aspects of astronomy that embody an invaluable shared resource for all nations. JJMO is currently planning several IYA2009 related activities. Please check back for more information. JJMO on TV If you were unable to attend our Second Saturday Stars event, you can now see the presentations broadcast on New Milford Community Channel 21. Check here for the most recent schedule.
May 2008
A Sky Deck for the McCarthy Observatory! The summer of 2006 saw the dedication of an exciting facility addition for
McCarthy Observatory's public outreach activities -- our Second Saturday Stars
open houses, adult education classes, Astronomy Clubs, group visits and special
events. The SkyDeck (artist's drawing above) will accommodate multiple
instruments for simultaneous use by visitors, classroom-under-the-sky settings,
or casual viewing. It is wheelchair accessible (as is the main observatory) and
includes a restroom facility on the observatory site. To make a donation, download a donation form now.
Visiting the Facility is Easy! You are always welcome to visit the McCarthy Observatory. Call to make sure the Observatory is open. If you wish to make an appointment, you may use our web site schedule request form or just telephone the Observatory.
|
|
