Location: Collins Observatory, Colby College

Winslow Public Library, Waterville Public Library, and Colby College are hosting a star-watching party at Colby's observatory. Patrons of Winslow and Waterville Public Libraries are invited to Colby College’s Collins Observatory for a night of stargazing on Friday, January 22nd. This family- friendly program will begin at 6:30 p.m. with a brief introduction from Clare Boothe Luce Assistant Professor of Astronomy, Elizabeth McGrath. Weather permitting, we will view a number of interesting astronomical objects using the automated 14-inch Collins telescope as well as some smaller portable telescopes. Celestial objects visible this night include the Moon, the Orion Nebula, the Pleiades, the Crab Nebula, and the Andromeda Galaxy. There is a heated classroom adjacent to the dome where hot cocoa and cookies will be served between viewings. Dress warmly, as the observatory dome is unheated.

Call the observatory number for weather updates on Jan, 22nd: if it is overcast or precipitating, the event will be canceled and re-scheduled. If you are outside and can see stars, then you can expect the event to be on. There will be a message on the observatory voicemail (859-5878) that afternoon (by 3pm) with news of whether the event is on as scheduled or canceled. Patrons can also contact Winslow Public Library at 872-1978 for up-to-date information about the event, and details about parking, finding the observatory, etc. or call Waterville Public Library at 872-5433. The two libraries will introduce their newly acquired Cornerstones of Science telescopes at the star party.

Directions: Find the Colby campus map on the web at http://www.colby.edu/visitors/campus-map/ or stop by the library for a copy. The observatory is #44 on the map. Park at the nearby Alfond parking area, adjacent to the Harold and Bibby Alfond Residence Complex which is #2 on the map. From the top of that parking lot there is a paved road on the right that goes past an iron gate and up to the observatory.