76°
The state-of-the-art facility features a research-grade, Classical-Cassegrain telescope with a 22-inch mirror housed beneath a six-meter retractable dome.
The telescope, capable of viewing objects millions of light years away, is a precision instrument equipped with a variety of tools, including specialized cameras to capture images of astronomical objects, light-pollution filters, and devices that measure the brightness of stars and analyze wavelengths of light to determine the chemical composition of light-emitting objects.
The NJSEA and Bergen will also host a special viewing of the Total Lunar Eclipse from 8 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 27 to 1:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 28. The peak of the event, when the Earth is positioned completely between the full moon and the sun, is expected around 10:45 p.m.
The event, which begins at 7:30 p.m., will include a talk on the history of eclipses and telescope viewing of other astronomical objects, including Saturn and Neptune.
“The NJSEA is committed to providing quality educational opportunities to the public and we are pleased that Bergen Community College’s expert astronomers will be staffing the William D. McDowell Observatory,” said Wayne Hasenbalg, president and CEO of the NJSEA. “These educators have a wealth of experience that will greatly benefit visitors and inspire a healthy curiosity and interest in science education among young people.”
Click here to follow Daily Voice Lyndhurst and receive free news updates.
