GRAVETTE -- The Gravette Public Library is hosting a star party Friday, Nov. 17, from 7 to 9 p.m. Members of the Sugar Creek Astronomical Society are bringing telescopes for the event, which they will set up on the north side of Main Street across from the library. Star maps will be available at no cost.
The moon will be in the waning crescent phase and will not be visible. However, "there will be excellent dark sky objects to be viewed," according to Katherine Auld, president of the astronomical society.
The public is invited to come and look through the telescopes. They are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and astronomy flashlights.
"Astronomy flashlights allow enough light to view star charts and illuminate one's path while not affecting night vision," said Karen Benson, Gravette library supervisor. Do it yourself astronomy flashlights can be made by placing transparent red "holiday" plastic wrap or cellophane over a flashlight lens, with a rubber band, Benson pointed out. Red transparent tape is available at auto parts stores, or a red balloon can also be used to create the red filter for an astronomy flashlight.
Sidewalk astronomy is a community outreach program of the Sugar Creek Astronomical Society and NWA Space. This event is hosted by the Gravette library as a part of its program promoting science, technology, engineering and math. Similar events are scheduled to be held in the spring and fall of 2018.
Community on 11/15/2017