As many of us experienced from the recent total solar eclipse, it was refreshing and inspiring to see so many people in our neighborhoods, and our country as a whole, take a break from screens and be fully present to focus on the beauty of our natural world.
It served as a reminder that our universe is vast, as people came together in community for a collective experience. In the process, a newfound appreciation and curiosity surrounding the cosmos was restored. Astronomy reveals a universe that is not only vast but also varied and beautiful with many mysteries left to unfold.
If the experience had a powerful impact on you or your child, there is a way to continue feeding that curiosity through attending a monthly “Star Party” that’s open to the public and conveniently takes place at Valley Forge National Historical Park.
Telescopes set up
The Delaware Valley Amateur Astronomers host monthly gatherings where they usually have around 10 telescopes set up for the public to take turns taking a look.
“Each member will focus on a different aspect of the sky,” said Dr. Janet Rush, M.D., the president of the non-profit astronomy club, adding one could be focusing on a galaxy, a star cluster, a planet, or craters on the moon. “We’re happy to talk to people and answer questions.”
The parties last for two hours, beginning at sundown, but attendees can stay or go as long as they please. There are usually 40 to 100 in attendance made up of regulars and first-time visitors.
All ages
The event is for people of all ages, so it’s kid-friendly, with many attendees bringing their children along to walk around and take turns at the different telescopes.
“It’s a wonderful hobby, in terms of lifelong learning,” said Rush, who lives in Montgomery County, adding it’s also a multi-faceted hobby with some in the DVAA who are interested in the photography aspect or building telescopes, or the spiritual aspect, for example. “It has something for everyone.”
Through their star parties and other outreach events held at schools, libraries, scouting groups and community organizations, the members of the DVAA volunteer their time to give back their shared love of astronomy.
“It’s a whole different thing to interest people in astronomy,” she said, adding she gets much enjoyment and gratification through astronomy as a hobby outside of her profession in internal medicine.
Convenient and easy to get to
Valley Forge was chosen as the meeting site for their star parties because it’s convenient and easy for most to get to.
“We want to make it accessible for people to get started with what the hobby is like,” Rush said. “I hope people get that spark of excitement and want to learn more about the universe we live in.”
Upcoming Public Star Party at Valley Forge, Valley Forge National Park at the model airplane field, Saturday, May 18, rain/cloud date May 19, begins at sundown. Arrive before sunset to enable you to easily navigate the park. Attendees are welcome to bring a telescope, but there will be around 10 available by members of the DVAA for all to take turns viewing. For more information, visit www.dvaa.org
Source: Berkshire mont
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