SIU Star Party to light up the night sky Sept. 27
KBSI FOX23 News at 9 p.m.
CARBONDALE, Ill., (KBSI) – Southern Illinois University Carbondale will host its annual Star Party from 5 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, offering activities and guided telescope observations for people of all ages.
The free event, held at the University Farms Astronomy Observation Area two miles west of campus, is presented in partnership with the Adler Planetarium and the Astronomical Association of Southern Illinois. The location was selected for its semi-dark sky conditions, which allow for optimal stargazing.
Bob Baer, associate scientist in the School of Physics and Applied Physics, said the Star Party fulfills SIU’s community service and education mission by connecting the public with astronomy.
“This event is the one time each year that we bring out all of our best telescopes to share with the public,” Baer said. “Seeing the moon, Saturn and deep sky objects like the Andromeda Galaxy with your own eyes is a totally different experience than looking at pictures. It’s something most people never forget and can really inspire kids who are interested in space.”
Highlights of this year’s Star Party include views of Saturn, Neptune and the crescent moon. Baer noted that Saturn and Neptune will be at opposition, making Saturn’s rings and moons especially visible, while Neptune will appear as a small blue-gray dot. Lunar views will also be enhanced by shadow contrasts highlighting the craters.
The evening will feature science activities, solar and nighttime telescopes operated by amateur astronomers and SIU faculty, and educational presentations projected on an inflatable screen after sunset. Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets and their own equipment.
Free shuttles will run from SIU Parking Lot 63 at Oakland and Chautauqua streets. Onsite parking is limited and available by permit for those with disabilities or large equipment. For accommodations, call 618-453-5738 or email events@siu.edu.
Partners for the event include SolarSTEAM, Straight Up Solar and Lookin’ Up Optics. Those unable to attend in person can participate online at solarsteam.siu.edu.
In addition to the Star Party, SIU will host regular astronomy observation nights this fall at the Astronomy Observation Deck atop the Neckers building. Upcoming dates include:
Saturday, Oct. 4, 8:30-10 p.m. – Saturn, the moon, M57 (Ring Nebula) and M13 (Hercules Globular Cluster).
Sunday, Nov. 16, 9-10:30 p.m. – Saturn, Jupiter, M42 (Great Orion Nebula) and M31 (Andromeda Galaxy).
All events are weather permitting and space is limited. Details are available at eclipse.siu.edu/public-astronomy-observations
or by emailing physics@siu.edu
