KOKOMO, Ind. — Witness the changing of the seasons by viewing the spring galaxies at the April 14 Indiana University Kokomo Observatory open house.
Patrick Motl, associate professor of physics, said the winter hexagon will be past meridian, replaced by the spring galaxies and constellations Virgo and Leo in the skies.
He will begin the free open house at 8 p.m. with a presentation about the Origins, Spectral Interpretation Resource Identification, Security-Regolith Explorer (OSIRIS-RE-x) mission that has been exploring the asteroid Bennu since December 31, 2018.
As leftover debris from the solar system formation process, the asteroid may record the earliest history of our solar system, and may contain molecular precursors to the origin of life and the earth’s oceans. It’s also one of the most potentially hazardous asteroids, as it has a relatively high probability of impacting the earth in the late 22nd century.
Immediately following the presentation, those attending will be able to view the stars and planets through the Observatory’s two telescopes, a six-inch Takahashi refracting telescope and a 16-inch Meade reflecting telescope mounted together.
The Takahashi provides exceptionally sharp images of planets, while the Meade allows viewers to see fainter objects in the sky, due to its larger light-collecting area.
Observation continues through 10 p.m., weather permitting. The open house is free and open to the public, at the Observatory, 2660 Washington Street. Free parking is available on campus.
Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.