Astronomy Nights
The Department of Physics and Geosciences is introducing the Astronomy Club!
Every Thursday in room 119 at 6:30PM, they will play a movie. After discussing the movie, there will be a short time period to set up equipment to have a public viewing of what can be seen in the night skies. This public viewing should begin around 7:30PM and will be done no later than 9PM. The viewing will be dependent on the weather. There will be no meeting on February 27.
For more information, contact Mrs. Nelson in room 123 of Hill Hall at 361-593-2324 or email at cherrie.nelson@tamuk.edu
The Department of Physics and Geosciences is happy to announce the Star Parties for Spring 2019! They will take place in the following dates:
- Wednesday February 27: Mercury's Greatest Elongation
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The planet Mercury reaches greatest eastern elongation of 18.1 degrees from the Sun. This is the best time to view Mercury since it will be at its highest point above the horizon in the evening sky. Look for the planet low in the western sky just after sunset.
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In Hill Hall Room 119 starting at 7:30 pm a movie from the series “How the Earth Was Made.” The public may select what show they would like to watch. Dr. Ford would be happy to answer your questions about geology and the formation of the Earth.
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- Tuesday April 23: Lyrids Meteor Shower
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Lyrids is an average shower, usually producing about 20 meteors per hour at its peak. It is produced by dust particles left behind by comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher, which was discovered in 1861. It peaks this year on the night of the night of the 22nd and morning of the 23rd. These meteors can sometimes produce bright dust trails that last for several seconds.
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In 119 starting at 7:30 pm a movie from the series “How the Earth Was Made.” The public may select what show they would like to watch. Dr. Ford would be happy to answer your questions about geology and the formation of the Earth.
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Star Parties - Fall 2018
The Department of Physics and Geosciences was happy to host several Astronomy Nights this Fall 2018 Semester. Students from local schools were invited to attend. A special edition “Star Party” was held to commemorate Halloween on October 31st. Students dressed up as their favorite alien character, and prizes were given out for the best dressed.
Attendants were treated to the movie “Contact,” a great science-fiction by legendary scientist Carl Sagan. Students also enjoyed Mini Golf and took a peek to the stars as the observatory was opened up. It was a great experience!
Astronomy Night - February 23, 2018
The last astronomy night in our department was held on February the 23rd, 2018. We had a ton of fun learning about the different aspects of interstellar communication. We also observed the stars, in what turned out to be a lovely night for star-gazing.
Look for new details regarding our Astronomy Night in the Spring 2018 issue of our department newsletter!
Attendants were treated to the movie “Contact,” a great science-fiction by legendary scientist Carl Sagan. Students also enjoyed Mini Golf and took a peek to the stars as the observatory was opened up. It was a great experience!