Come to our "SkyWatch" on February 17, 6:30pm

 Bundle up for the cold weather and come to the Dover Public Library on Tuesday,February 17, at 6:30pm to participate in a “SkyWatch”, under the tutelage of the New HampshireAstronomical Society.  We’ll start out inside with a brief (about 20 minutes) informational session and slide show on “What’s up in Tonight’s Sky”. Then we’ll move outside to set up telescopes and dosome star-gazing!

What happens at a "SkyWatch"?  It’s simply a gathering of amateur astronomers with a focus on public outreach and education. It is "beginner-friendly." NHAS members will set up their equipment and choose their celestial targets. The equipment (telescopes and binoculars) is the property of the member and will be carefully aligned and focused for you on an interesting celestial target. Your observer will explain what you will be seeing. Many celestial objects, while beautiful, are quite dim and it may take some time before you begin to see all the detail. Atmospheric turbulence may also come and go, so you may suddenly experience moments when the view is spectacularly better – watch for them! This is your special time at the telescope so we encourage you to make the most of it. Do ask any questions that come to mind, and if you don’t see anything please say “I don’t see anything!” since objects do sometimes drift out of view.

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It’s important to stay warm! Bring about twice as much warm clothing as you think you 'll need. Winter calls for insulated boots, thermal underwear, corduroy jeans, parka, flannel shirt, gloves, and, very important, a warm knit cap!

Participants may bring their own telescopes if they desire, but the Library’s telescopes, as well as

Society members’ telescopes, will be available to use. In the event of a cloudy night, the informational

slide show will still take place at 6:30pm. Families are encouraged to attend. This program is free and

open to the public. For more information call the Dover Public Library at 603-516-6050.