I was looking on the web to see if there are any particularly interesting things we might see on April 29 when we will be stargazing at Fisher Farm. One thing I learned is that we might be able to see Mercury in the evening sky. Because Mercury is the planet closest to the sun we have to look for it either at sunset or sunrise. This article tells us that from April 15 to the 30th Mercury is visible a half hour after sunset: http://www.space.com/32595-mercury-best-viewing-time-2016-is-now.html.
So you might try looking for Mercury this week and at Fisher Farm.
Of course, the night sky is always fascinating. There will be many things to see with just your eyes and even more with the telescopes provided by our local astronomers.
Here’s hoping we have clear skies on the night of April 29.
You can check this article for more information about the night sky this year. http://www.space.com/16149-night-sky.html
And here’s the information about Stargazing at Fisher Farm:
Stargazing at Fisher Farm Park
Friday, April 29, 8:30pm to 10:00pm
2125 Shearer Road, Davidson
Everyone is invited to a night of stargazing at Fisher Farm Park, sponsored by WOW-World of Wonder, Woodland Discovery, Davidson Lands Conservancy, the Town of Davidson and the Davidson Green School. The Physics Department from Davidson College and the Charlotte Amateur Astronomers Club are providing equipment and expertise for this popular event. All telescopes will be set up and ready to go by 8:30pm. After that, no changes to the telescopes will be made. Therefore, you are welcome to come any time between 8:30pm and 10pm.
You’re welcome to bring your own telescope. Bring a flashlight, and be sure to visit the WOW table where we’ll put red cellophane on your flashlight. This enables all to see the sky better. As you enter Fisher Farm, please keep car lights dimmed and your speed very slow to keep dust and glare from interfering with the night sky. All ages are welcome.
Please, no dogs. Dog leashes and telescopes do not mix, and dogs are hard to see at night. Thank you.
Fisher Farm Park is located at 21215 Shearer Road on the east side of Davidson. Take East Rocky River Road to Shearer, then head north on Shearer about 1 mile and Fisher Farm Park will be on the left.
Interested in volunteering for this event? Please email dlc.wow@gmail.com.
CANCELLATION: If we need to cancel, due to weather (cloudy skies, etc.) or other circumstances, we’ll try to email everyone by noon, Friday, April 29th. Also, notices will be posted on the DLC website and Facebook page. Please double-check before leaving home! We’ll also post a sign at Fisher Farm Park. If cancelled, we’ll not be re-scheduling. Make sure you and your friends are on our WOW email list! (If you are getting this email, you are on the list.)