Pocono News Section

Families Seeing Stars at Bucknell University

Families Seeing Stars at Bucknell University - Friday, January 15, 2010 at 5:49PM EST

Reported by: Jeremy Deebel
Friday, Jan 15, 2010 @ 05:49pm EST
Lewisburg, Union County-

They'll be seeing stars and a whole lot more at Bucknell University next week, thanks to a program aimed at exposing families to the fun of science.

At the Bucknell University Observatory, the main attraction is a powerful telescope donated by the school's founder back in 1887. It's the centerpiece of Family Night at the observatory.

Astronomy Professor Ned Ladd noted, "We have several outreach events over the course of the year. People can come in and use our telescopes and learn a little bit more about astronomy."

The recently refurbished telescope has been hooked up to motors and a computer, giving observers a bird's eye view of the beautiful night sky from every angle.

George Wright brought his granddaughter, Emily, to the event last year. He said, "She likes astronomy. She's interested in the stars."

Children will also have the chance to craft their own telescopes and learn about the possibility of life on other planets.

Ladd explained, "Not sort of little green men in UFO's, but rather more a question of, 'Are the conditions out in various different parts of space conducive to the kind of life that we have here on this planet?"

Professor Ladd says the goal is to show kids that science is fun. And help them understand that even far out things like stars and planets can have an impact on our lives.

Ladd noted, "It tells us a little bit that not only are we somewhat special for our location, but we're really a little tiny piece of a very vast universe."

Wright added, "They have exhibits, they have people there to explain what it is that you're seeing. It's really a nice night out."

Family Night at the Bucknell University Observatory takes place next Friday night, January 22nd, from 6-9. It's free and open to the public.