ETSU’s Department of Physics and Astronomy hosted an open house at the Harry D. Powell Observatory to allow the public to learn more about astronomy. 

The open house took place Saturday from 8-10 p.m. and allowed visitors to participate in viewing the night sky through the observatory telescopes. The department hosts events similar to this throughout the semester to help educate the public. Professor Beverly Smith made a brief presentation during the event and astronomers answered any questions visitors had.

Gary Henson, a professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at ETSU, said, “People may want to learn more about the nature of the universe using a telescope, with astronomers on hand it gives them a chance to ask them in person and experience some of the observations themselves.”

ETSU strives to make unique campus experiences accessible for everyone. The observatory open house gives anyone a chance to come learn more about the universe and gain experience with telescopes.

Photo of an exterior telescope located at the Harry D. Powell Observatory. (ShelC’ Black/East Tennessean)

“We offered to explain how to telescopes work, we also a 30 minute general lecture on an astronomy topic. It could be something in news or a topic people show interest in,” Henson said.

Henson explained that these open houses are informal and just a way to welcome anyone interested in the observatory or science. Anyone is welcome and no former knowledge of astronomy is needed to enjoy the observatory. 

“Both of the next open houses will be better for viewing, not only will you be able to see the moon, but also Jupiter and Saturn,” Henson said.

For those who were unable to attend Saturday, there will be another open house in October and November. The department is also hosting a solar eclipse viewing in the large parking lot off of University Parkway on Oct. 14. For information visit ETSU’s observatory website. 

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