USC Aiken's Science Center Invites Public to Earth, Sky Night

Aiken, SC (04/24/2019) — The Ruth Patrick Science Education Center's annual Family Earth and Sky Night, May 11, features engaging presentations and dynamic activities.

"Come join us at USC Aiken for a fun filled evening as we celebrate Family Earth and Sky Night as part of our Astronomy and Earth Day celebrations," said Dr. Gary Senn, director of RPSEC.

"Events include planetarium shows, hands-on activities, night-sky viewing, and viewing through the Bechtel Telescope."

For more information, go to: http://rpsec.usca.edu/Events/StarParty/EarthSky2019/

Planetarium Shows: 6:00, 7:00, 8:00, 9:00 p.m.

Big Bird's Adventure: One World One Sky - 6 and 7 p.m.

Defying Gravity: It IS Rocket Science! - 8 p.m.

Engineering the International Space Station - 9 p.m..

Availability and Pricing: Shows are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The admission fees are: Adults $6.50, Senior Citizens $5.50, 4K - 12 Students $4.50, USC Aiken students and staff $2.00. Children under 4 are not admitted in the planetarium but are welcome at the other activities. Tickets are available during Earth & Sky Night. Reservations are not available for shows this evening.

Hands-on Activities: 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. - FREE

A variety of hands-on activities will be available from 6:30 - 9:30 p.m., to allow guests to experience the wonders of earth and space science.

"Many activities will have materials you can take home with you to remember this wonderful night, and live animals will be on display, including snakes, turtles, alligators, and owls," Senn said.

Night-Sky Viewing: 8:00 - 10:00 p.m. - FREE

Local amateur astronomers will host naked-eye, binocular, and telescope observations of the moon, planets, and stars on the lawn. Bring a blanket, towel or reclining lounge chair. There will be opportunity to get comfortable and observe the night sky. People can stand or lie back and observe the stars appear as our patch of Earth turns away from the Sun. See the marvels of the night sky with help from knowledgeable and engaging people.

"Amateur astronomers will have a number of telescopes available for use by the public. Take advantage of this opportunity to see sky objects in detail, compare different telescopes in use, and to learn about the models available for amateur astronomers," Senn said.

"The Bechtel Telescope in the RPSEC Observatory will also be available for viewing the wonders of the sky."

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