JOHNSON CITY – Curious about some of the initial results from the James Webb Space Telescope, the most powerful space-viewing tool ever constructed?
Would you like to look through top-of-the-line telescopes at the moon, stars and other planets?
You’ll get the chance at East Tennessee State University.
For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic started, ETSU faculty will open the
Harry D. Powell Astronomical Observatory for an open house event once a month during the fall semester.
“For anyone interested in astronomy, curious about the night sky or simply wanting
to learn more about space, this is a wonderful opportunity,” said Dr. Beverly Smith,
a professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy.
The first open house is scheduled for 8 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 3, at the observatory.
Dr. Mark Giroux, a physics and astronomy professor, will give a brief talk about some
of the first results from the Webb telescope. Visitors can walk through the observatory,
and staff will have telescopes in place.
These monthly events are free and open to the public.
The observatory is located near the main campus at 1101 Narrow Lane in Johnson City.
To learn more about the observatory, as well as other events happening this semester,
visit etsu.edu/cas/physics/observatory/starparty.php.
The open house will be cancelled if inclement weather occurs or skies are cloudy.
If you are unsure of weather conditions, call the observatory at (423) 929-3382 before coming.