Astronomy Day 2006 May 6, 2006

Astronomy Day 2006
Saturday, May 6, 2006
RAIN OR SHINE
3PM to 11PM

C.M. Crockett Park in Fauquier County, Virginia

Welcome Stargazers!
Astronomy Day, Saturday May 6, 2006 is a nationwide event where stargazers congregate and the general public is invited to re-kindle an interest or get their kids or family into a wholesome hobby. Learn about astronomy while enjoying the night sky with dozens of telescopes, binoculars and homemade projects. Many experienced astronomers will be on hand to answer questions and share their knowledge.

You do not need to be a member of the club or own any astronomical equipment to attend. All you need is an interest in the wonders of the cosmos. Easy access, lots of equipment and a dark sky make for a good night under the stars. Please join us!

Solar observing begins at 3PM

In addition to a tour of the night sky and friendly assistance with all astronomical topics, NOVAC will be offering presentations on a range of astronomy related topics at this year's Astronomy Day event. The talks are intended for astronomers (or aspiring astronomers) of any experience level. We will also have a mentor's corner to assist new observers with their equipment and aswer general observing questions.

Download a copy of this year's Astronomy Day flyer in PDF format. http://www.novac.com/astronomy-day/AstroDay2006Flyer.pdf
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Directions:
Crockett Park is about 20 miles south of Manassas at 10066 Rogues Road (Rt. 602) Midland, VA, 22728. From Washington DC/Northern Virginia, go west on I-66 to exit 44 (234 South bypass around Manassas). Take 234 bypass approximately 3 miles to Rt. 28 West. Stay on Route 28 for about 13.7 miles through Nokesville, Catlett, and Calverton. Turn right on Rt. 643 (Meetze Rd.) towards Warrenton (Mayhugh's country store is on the corner) Go about a mile up Rt. 643 to the park entrance road (Rogues Rd.) on the left. Look for a small sign directing you to CM Crockett Park. Once on the park entrance road, go one-half mile to the park gate. After arriving at the main gate, continue past the gravel parking lot on the left to the paved parking lot at the end of the road. There will be telescopes set up in the nearby field. Dim your headlights when arriving and departing. Please do not drive onto the field.

Preparation begins before leaving home Dress warmly! Evening temperatures can be chilly. For lighting, cover a flashlight in red cellophane (the darker the better). Bring along water to keep hydrated and plan on staying the entire evening or as long as the weather allows. Feel free to walk around and enjoy the sights through the equipment on display but please ask the owner before using. It's best to control children around expensive astronomical equipment. Remember, telescope mirrors are sensitive to cigarette smoke and bug spray. Pets should not be brought onto the observing field.We look forward to seeing you!

Official Website: http://www.novac.com/astronomy-day/index.php