ACCD News & Events

SAC Planetarium to Host a Mars Observing Session

For Immediate Release
November 8, 2005
Contact: John Hammond, Director of Public Relations, San Antonio College
210/733-2147
jhammond@accd.edu

The Scobee Planetarium and the San Antonio Astronomical Association will host a Mars Observing Session on Saturday, November 12 at the San Antonio College Observatory and the adjacent parking lot.

"In late October and early November, Mars is closest to Earth in its orbit and the brightest it's been in the sky since the summer of 2003. Mars will not be this bright and as easily viewed again until the year 2018,"said Bryan Snow, Planetarium Coordinator.

Snow said that views through a telescope will show the polar ice cap and the dark surface markings. He added that about a dozen telescopes from the San Antonio Astronomical Association will be set up in the surrounding parking lot.

"Families are encouraged to bring their children to witness this sight that won't be equaled for another 13 years," said Snow. He said other viewing targets during the evening will include the Moon and "the brightest planet of all, Venus."

The Observatory and surrounding telescopes will be available from 6 p.m. until about 10:00 p.m. Parking is free, located one block east of San Pedro Ave. off W. Park. If it is cloudy or raining, the session will be cancelled. For more information, call 733-2910.