LAND BETWEEN THE LAKES, KY/TN – West Kentucky Amateur Astronomers will host a National Astronomy Day event from 12-4pm, Saturday, May 14, 2016, at the Golden Pond Planetarium and Observatory at Land Between The Lakes.
Visitors can enjoy free, full-dome, digital surround sound planetarium shows at 10 and 11am, 12, 1, 2, 3, and 4pm. A Star Party will take place at the observatory located just behind the visitor center after dark, if weather permits.
“The planetarium offers a variety of shows and provides an exciting way for our visitors to learn more about astronomy,” says Rob Milner, Planetarium Manager. “We teach visitors about the planets and how the sun
affects earth’s climate and environment. We also open the observatory for people to safely observe the sun through our solar telescope. Visitors of all ages will find our events entertaining and educational.”
Other highlights include, “Meet Galileo” – an opportunity to interact with a first-person interpretation of the famous astronomer. A hands-on session allows participants to use dry ice to create a comet and touch its frozen dirty surface.
Astronomy club members will explain how anyone can get involved with astronomy.
Visitors will receive tips on observing the night sky, buying a first telescope, and safely viewing the sun.
Land Between The Lakes also works with local partners on planning and promotion of the solar eclipse coming to the region in August 2017. The last total solar eclipse occurred in the continental United States in 1979. Staff will provide a free special simulation and explanation of the 2017 eclipse on the planetarium dome.
National Astronomy Day promotes and encourages astronomy as a science and hobby. Land Between The Lakes and the Western Kentucky Amateur Astronomers hope the observance will increase knowledge and awareness of how the earth, moon, and sun interact.