Planetarium to mark National Astronomy Day
By HALEY HUGHES
Staff writer
Celebrate astronomy with the Dupont Planetarium this evening.
Today is National Astronomy Day, and both the planetarium and Ruth Patrick Science Education Center have some special things planned.
"We will be having our annual Earth and Sky night," said planetarium director Dr. Gary Senn.
Telescopes, including the Bechtel telescope, will also be available for viewing, and members of the Astronomy Club of Augusta will be on hand to answer questions.
Senn said throughout the Ruth Patrick Science Education Center, there will be hands-on activities with "make it, take it" projects like constructing constellations.
In a special treat, the Aiken Robotics Team will have robots that people can explore and learn about. Check out how the first Overdrive Competition robot uses it pneumatic system to pick up and launch a 40-inch diameter, 7.3 pound ball over an overpass.
The Ruth Patrick animals will also be out.
Senn said the highlight of the evening will be the debut of the planetarium's new show "To the Moon and Beyond." Written by Dupont Planetarium's program director, Darlene Smalley, the show will feature the human race's activities involving the moon in the past, present and future.
The story begins with a father and daughter witnessing firsthand the launch of the Apollo 11 spacecraft.
"Then we jump forward in time when the daughter is a NASA engineer," Senn said.
The audience will have to find out for itself how the story continues and how it ends.
"To the Moon and Beyond" features the voices of WJBF News Channel 6 Mary Morrison, 92.7 FM radio deejay Tony Baughman and Moriah and Laura Melvin.
Activities begin at 7 p.m. and last until 10 p.m. Admission to the planetarium is $4.50 for adults, $3.50 for senior citizens and $2.50 for students in the fourth through 12th grades.
For more information, call 641-3654.
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