Etelman Observatory Invites Islanders to View the Universe on Friday
The 0.5m Virgin Islands Robotic Telescope housed at the Etelman Observatory is used by members of the VIRT consortium for various fundamental astrophysics research projects. (Etelman Observatory Photo)
The Etelman Observatory of the University of the Virgin Islands will be hosting its next free Public Observing Night on Friday, October 7, 2016.
Virgin Islanders will have the opportunity to get up-close and personal looks at the planets Venus, Mars and Saturn as well as nebulae and galaxies through a 15″ automated robotically controlled telescope.
“We are pleased to invite the St Thomas public to join us and enjoy the night sky, views of our Galaxy, and a discussion of interesting and exciting topics in the world of Astrophysics and Space Science.” stated observatory director, Dr. David C. Morris. “The evening will also feature a video presentation [sic] describing the new Physics program at UVI and highlighting research projects of several of our students.”
Mounted at the peak of Bonne Resolution on St. Thomas, the facility serves as a fundamental astrophysics and geophysics research station and a center for the Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) initiative.
The public is periodically invited to observation nights as part of the observatory’s public outreach mission. Space is very limited and you can only sign up, first come, first serve, through their automated reservation system. Click the links below to reserve!
http://observatory-7pm.app.rsvpify.com
http://observatory-8pm.app.rsvpify.com
http://observatory-9pm.app.rsvpify.com
Please keep in mind that the 7:00 start time is designed for youngsters (under 10 years of age), while the 8:00 and 9:00 shows will be more appropriate for older children and adult guests.
A free shuttle service will operate from the Sibilly School parking lot (near Sibs and the traffic circle). Due to parking limitations at the Observatory, you MUST take the shuttle. Please plan to be at the shuttle stop about 20-30 minutes before your scheduled session start time.
