Saturday, April 24: National Astronomy Day observation, 9-11 p.m.

National Astronomy Day 2010 will be observed (pun intended) on Saturday, April 24, at Penn State Erie, The Behrend College.

The college’s School of Science and the Erie County Mobile Observers Group will host guided astronomical observation of the moon, Saturn, stars, nebulae and galaxies that evening between 9 and 11 p.m., provided that the weather is clear enough to see the moon and brightest stars with the naked eye. The event is free, open to the public, and suitable for all ages, including young children.

Viewing will take place behind the Otto Behrend Science Building on the campus of Penn State Behrend. The telescope in the college’s Mehalso Observatory will be used, as will additional mobile telescopes. Penn State Behrend faculty and members of the Observers Group will be on hand to assist in locating objects and answering questions.

National Astronomy Day was created in 1973 “to bring astronomy to the people” with informal viewing events in public spaces.

For additional information about the event, phone the Penn State Behrend School of Science at 814-898-6105.