By Christie Bender
Grand Rapids Public Museum
Did you get a telescope at the holidays, or do you have one sitting around collecting dust because you find it difficult to use? Do you want to learn more about what to look for in the sky and resources that can lead to better enjoyment from backyard stargazing?
Learn more about astronomy and the night sky from the Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) and Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association (GRAAA) as they team up again this year to offer three introductory Saturday classes at Schuler Books and Music, 2660 28th St., Grand Rapids.
Each of the one-hour Astronomy as a Hobby sessions begin at 10:30 a.m., and is followed by a Telescope Tune-up Clinic from approximately 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. During the Telescope Clinic, experienced amateur astronomers will adjust personal telescopes and provide advice about proper use. Those wishing to come to only a Telescope Clinic session may do so.
The schedule for Astronomy as a Hobby classes and Telescope Tune-up Clinics:
January 26 – The Ever Changing Sky
Attendees will learn what to look for and when, and what sky motions and seasonal attractions are occurring during 2019 for naked eye, binoculars and telescope. Effective viewing of sky objects is highlighted.
February 9 – Telescopes, Accessories, and How to Use Them
Attendees will learn how to select the right telescope for their background and level of interest, and equipment challenges often encountered by novice amateur astronomers.
February 23 – What’s Next from My New Hobby
Attendees will learn about the most recommended guides, star maps and online resources, along with stargazing tips. What options are available to learn more?
All activities are geared to a family audience, and are free and open to the public.
Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association
The Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association is a non-profit educational and scientific organization dedicated to advancing the study of astronomy and promoting astronomy and science education to the community. Located at the Veen Observatory in Lowell, MI, the GRAAA is an organization that offers information, guidance and memberships for anyone who is interested in astronomy. Visit graaa.org for more information.
Grand Rapids Public Museum
The Grand Rapids Public Museum is an invaluable, publicly-owned institution that is home to more than 250,000 unique artifacts that tell the history of Kent County and beyond, houses the only planetarium in the region, and is responsible for protecting The Mounds, a national historic landmark. The Grand Rapids Public Museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, with its main location in downtown Grand Rapids, MI at 272 Pearl Street, NW. For additional information including hours of operation, admission fees and exhibit/event listings, please visit www.grpm.org.
