The public is invited to LaGrange College Historic Site in Leighton, Alabama on Saturday, April 21st for Astronomy Day. This free event will start at 4 p.m. with filtered solar observing during the day and moon viewing through telescopes after sunset.
Held twice a year, Astronomy Day was created by the volunteer-led Astronomical League to “encourage an interest in astronomy throughout America.” Astronomy Day shows people the hobby of amateur astronomy by connecting them to the hidden splendor in night skies.
Amateur stargazers from Shoals Astronomy Club will discuss topics during daylight hours such as our place in the universe, the prevalence of light pollution, and the scale of the solar system. As night falls, views of the moon will precede the Lyrid meteor shower, which peaks after moonset. Telescopes and binoculars will be on hand for supervised use.
The LaGrange College Historic Site hosts an observatory built by local amateur astronomers in 1960. The roll-off roof was restored to working order last year, with plans to add stargazing events at the facility.
Clear skies are necessary for this event, so please check the forecast before attending. Questions should be directed to shoalsastro@gmail.com
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