For over four months, the UND observatory has been offering students and local residents a unique glimpse into the night sky. From comets to planets, those who attend these "star parties" have been able to peek through a telescope and study the wonders of space.
On Friday nights, when there is minimal cloud cover, the public can head out for a free event at the UND Observatory, located just east of Emerado off Highway 2. It is run by the Northern Skies Astronomical Society and sponsored by the Department of Space Studies at the University.
"Star parties are free events, open to the general public," stated Dr. Paul Hardersen, Assistant Professor in the Department of Space Studies and the observatory director. It allows those interested to "learn about the night sky, astronomy, science, and to have the chance to look through a telescope." The telescope allows attendees to view other planets, star clusters, and perhaps the occasional comet, should they be so lucky.
On a typical Friday night, anywhere from 15-75 people will make the trek out to the Observatory, mostly consisting of students, faculty, and interested residents of the Grand Forks community.
The goal of the parties is to "give people the opportunity to learn about astronomy and science in a fun, relaxed atmosphere," commented Hardersen. "Everyone who attends seems to enjoy themselves."
Weather permitting, the events are scheduled for the remainder of the month of October. For directions to the "star parties," visit observatory.space.edu.
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