[Atmob-discuss] Boston Area National Astronomy Day ATMoB Volunteers Needed

Wed May 7 10:04:11 EDT 2008

This year Boston's Astronomy Day does not conflict with NEAF, so hopefully
more ATMoB members can make it.

As of Wednesday morning, only 5 ATMoB members are signed up on the ATMoB web
site.

As this is a public event, I am posting this to both Announce and Discuss.

*** Please sign up on the Clay Center Observatory web site so that a printed
badge and meal tickets can be provided to you.  Bob Phinney can also provide
tickets to ATMoB members and their immediate families for the laser shows.
***

Please also pass the information on this event on to anyone with an interest
in astronomy.  This is a great family event, with many activities geared for
children of all ages.

For more information you can also contact:

Robert F. Phinney

Clay Center Observatory

20 Newton Street, Brookline, MA 02445

Voice: 617-454-2718, Fax: 617-522-8166

Clay Center: www.claycenter.org

Email: bphinney at dexter.org

Reminder - The Clay Center Observatory is open on Tuesday evenings for
public telescope viewing.

Dress warmly. If weather is questionable, call 617-454-2795 one hour before
the event for a recorded message or check the web site for more information
http://www.claycenter.org/astro .

Boston Astronomy Day Information Web Site:

https://www.dexter-southfield.org/podium/default.aspx?t=15823 or
www.claycenter.org

Astronomers/Exhibitor/Vendor/ Registration:

https://www.dexter-southfield.org/podium/default.aspx?t=17822

Those planning to participate as astronomers and exhibitors, or need to set
up a table or booth, please register at the above link or send an e-mail to
Bob Phinney (bphinney at dexter.org).

General Admission/ Public Registration:

https://www.dexter-southfield.org/podium/default.aspx?t=36644&rid=485

Don't forget to Register so your family is eligible for the door prize
drawings.  The event will be held rain or shine since there will be many
indoor activities. Admission and most activities are free, although some
activities may require the purchase of kit materials, such as in the
rocketry clinic.

Details from the ATMoB web site:

National Astronomy Day

Dexter Southfield School, Brookline

Saturday, May 10, 2008 at 3:00 PM

Event submitted by Virginia Renehan

National Astronomy Day - May 10, 2008

Every spring at the 1st quarter moon the Clay Center Observatory teams  up
with the Amateur Telescope Makers of Boston to celebrate National  Astronomy
Day, a fun family-oriented festival of science.  Join us for  solar
observing in the afternoon and night viewing after dark. Other  activities
include planetarium shows, laser light shows, kite making and  stunt kite
demonstrations, model rocketry, guest lecturers including  Galileo himself,
exhibits, demonstrations, and hands-on activities for  all ages.

Saturday, May 10, 2008, 3:00-10:00 pm.  Free admission - see  Astronomy Day
web site (http://www.claycenter.org/astro) for details.  Location: Clay
Center Observatory, 20 Newton Street, Brookline, MA.

Details from the Clay Center Observatory Web Site and emails:

NATIONAL ASTRONOMY DAY - PUBLIC EVENT

May 10, 2008

Daytime and Evening Events

Indoor events from 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm

Outdoor events begin at 2:00 with rocket launches, kite flying, and
telescopes

Free admission! Come anytime during the afternoon and evening.

Free Astronomy souvenir for first 300 children!

Don't forget to register so your family is eligible for the door prize
drawings.

The Clay Center will hold astronomy day events in collaboration with the
Amateur Telescope Makers of Boston (ATMoB). Many activities have been
planned for families and children of all ages.

* Many different telescopes will be set up for you to see and use. Safely
view the sun in the daytime, and see the moon and stars in the evening,
weather permitting.

* Demonstrations, lectures, planetarium shows, rocketry, stunt kites,
educational activities for all ages. GALILEO returns! Two shows!

* Astronomy Show by astronomer Ron Dantowitz about telescopic coverage of
historic SpaceShip One launches and the famous Laser-to-Space-Station
project.

* Back again by popular demand! Prismatic Magic LASER Light Science Show!

*Mike Cenci Food Canteen will have dinner, snacks, and drinks available 3 pm
- 7 pm.

*Door prizes - three drawings - a Celestron ExploraScope telescope in each
drawing!

Children under 12 must be accompanied by parents. No pets permitted on
campus.

Exhibitors include Amateur Telescope Makers of Boston, Segway of New
England, E-Planetarium, Fliskits Rocketry, Blue Hill Meteorological
Observatory, NASA/JPL Ambassadors, Aldrich Astronomical Society, Preismatic
Magic LASER Light Show, Kites Over New England, Clay Center Amateur Radio
Club, Sky Connections Star Lab Planetarium, George Roberts Planetarium, The
Planetary Society, West Boylston Middle High School Microgravity Club, City
Year, IGNITE Foundation, Clay Center Observatory, Dexter-Southfield 5th
grade Cosmic Choir, Seaside Kites, Mass Academy of Science, Needham Science
Center.

Visit www.claycenter.org  for latest details.

Partial List of Activities

Ride a Segway!

Ride a Segway! Ride the wave of the future!  Segway of Northern New England
will bring several Segways for people to try out.  How do they work?
Gyroscopes!  What does this have to do with Astronomy?  It's Science!  Visit
Segway's Web Site for more information.

Galileo Returns!

Featured guest speaker - Galileo, performed by character actor Paul Manning,
who has performed many times at the Clay Center.  Show times: 4:15 and 7:00
pm on Level 5.  Free admission.

Listen as Galileo presents his life, discoveries, and experiments.  You will
take part in helping prove some of his theories.  This is a colorful
presentation for all ages.  His involvement with mathematics, physics,
astronomy and the church are explored.  This is a fun filled, fast paced,
presentation of "The Father of the Scientific Method" and "Astronomy"!

Solar and Night Telescopes

ATMoB telescopes (Amateur Telescope Makers of Boston) set up many types of
telescopes.

They set up in the courtyards for safe solar viewing during the afternoon,
and for viewing the moon, planets, and stars after dark. Come talk to
amateur astronomers and get tips for getting the most out of your own
telescope.

Make Your Own Telescope

Make Your Own Galileo Telescope activity (for children 12 and under)

(Quantities limited, Courtesy of Learning Technologies, Somerville)

NASA/JPL Ambassadors

NASA/JPL Ambassadors will have a hands-on exhibit about the Geology of the
Solar System.  Special presentations each hour.

LASER Light Show

LASER Light Show and LASER Science Demonstration by Prismatic Magic.  Five
40-minute custom SCIENCE LASER SPECTACULAR laser programs are scheduled. The
programs will be approximately half live-presentation and half LASER show.
The live-presentation will be tailored to touch on the basic physics of
LASER-light and the application of LASERs in astronomy/space science. The
LASER show will serve as a fun example of other applications of LASERs and
physics.  Show times 3:15, 4:15, 5:15, 7:15, and 8:15 pm in the Clay Center
Lecture Hall.  Tickets $3 per person.

E-Planetarium Multi-media Shows

E-Planetarium -- Hi-tech digital multi-media shows. (seats 35) Six 30-minute
shows are planned -- It's About Time, Fantasy Worlds, and Amazing
Astronomers of Anciet Rome.  Takes place in a huge 6-meter inflatable dome
which seats up to 35 people sitting on the floor.

It's About Time: It's About Time to explore spaceflight and astronomy in a
new way! On this space adventure into the future, ride into space and see
distant galaxies. Take a space elevator up strong nano-fiber cables to high
Earth orbit. Use a Time Telescope to watch the Big Bang, the birth and death
of a star and an explosion on the sun. Explore these wonderful inventions
from "science future" as you discover the many clocks that keep time in the
universe. Show times 3:30 and 7:00 pm.  Tickets $3 per person.

Fantasy Worlds - Exploring the Limits of Life: Is extrasolar life more
strange than life on Earth?  On Earth, scientists have discovered life forms
flourishing in the most extreme and dangerous environments – from deserts,
boiling springs, and acidic ponds to Antarctic ice. Fantasy Worlds features
artists and animators creations of possible life-bearing worlds that our
telescopes and spacecraft may someday find around other stars. Join in the
search for alien planets and explore the extremes of life on Earth in this
magical mix of science, fact and artistic fantasy. Show times 4:30 and 8:00
pm.  Tickets $3 per person.

New for 2008!  Amazing Astronomers of Ancient Rome: takes you back to a day
before modern computers and modern scientific instruments, to a day when the
skies were dark. Did you know that ancient astronomers knew the size of the
Earth, the rotation of the sky, and could predict eclipses and seasons and
even the flood of the Nile? Take a full dome journey to the past to uncover
the ancient secrets. Visit the buildings, like the Pantheon in Rome and
Saccar in Egypt that are themselves observatories! Learn the stories of
seven amazing astronomers. Show times 5:30 and 9:00 pm.  Tickets $3 per
person.

Sky Connection Star Lab Planetarium Shows

StarLab Planetarium by The Sky Connection.  Each 25-minute session will take
the audience on a "Journey through the cosmos. Explore the Earth from a new
perspective."  The StarLab is an inflatable dome which seats up to 25 people
sitting on the floor.

The Sky Connection provides on-site, EduTariumSM programs for schools,
private events, camps and nature centers - throughout New England and
beyond. An EduTarium is a classroom-in-a-classroom that enables students to
visualize and interact with subject matter of all types in ways that are
impossible with traditional page and screen-based learning aids. This
program is appropriate for children 6 years and older.  Show times 3:30,
4:30, 5:30, 6:45, 7:45, 8:45 pm.  Tickets $2 per person.

George Roberts Star Lab Show

StarLab Planetarium show by George Roberts.  Each 25-minute session will
introduce the audience to the wonders of the night sky in the Greater Boston
area.  The StarLab is an inflatable dome which seats up to 25 people sitting
on the floor.

In this interactive sky tour, George will explain how to find The North Star
and let the children practice. Then you will learn why the North star
doesn't move and after that he'll answer any astronomy questions. This
program is appropriate for children 5 years and older. Show times 5:00, 6:00,
7:15, 8:15, 9:15 pm.  Tickets $2 per person.

Presentations and Lectures

Presentations and Lectures on Levels 2 and 5, 30 min. each.

Some presentations are geared toward children, some to adults.  All are
designed for the amateur or beginner in mind.

Clay Center Observatory

The Observatory is open for safe solar viewing during the afternoon, and for
viewing the moon and planets after dark.

Tour the 5th floor solar and wind energy systems, and view the
Bostonskyline from the roof decks.

Blue Hill Observatory

The Blue Hill Meteorological Observatory will have science related kits,
books, posters, and other items for sale during the event.
http://www.bluehill.org/

Kite Flying - Outdoors and Indoors!

Kite Flying - Outdoors from 2:00 to 6:30 pm on Fuller Field.  Bring your
own, make your own here, or buy one from us.  Stunt kite
demonstrations.  SPECIAL
EVENT - Indoor kite flying!  Come try it.  In the Athletic Center from 6:00
- 9:00 pm.

Planetary Society Exhibit

The Planetary Society invites you to our table for the latest news in space
exploration! See Mars in 3D! Free Planetary Reports, stickers and bookmarks
available. Special Astronomy Day membership offer: Join the Planetary
Society and get $10 off and a free nebula poster!  The Planetary Society is
the largest space interest group in the world where members support space
science research and space missions. Free copies of our bimonthly
publication, 'The Planetary Report' will be available as well as free TPS
bookmarks. Special Astronomy Day Offer - Join us now for a $10 savings AND
receive a FREE nebula poster! Be part of the adventure!  Or sign up online:
go to http://planetary.org/nebula.html and use the coupon code ASTR07 (that
zero 7 for the year, not o for astro)

Planethood for Pluto?

In 2006, astronomers reclassified Pluto as a dwarf planet. Do you agree or
disagree with this decision? Come cast your vote with The Needham Science
Center. The results will appear ???????

Stars Courtyard

By day walk among the classical constellations created in the 1600s. After
dark walk among the stars, lit by fiber optics!

Planetary Scales

Weigh yourself on the Moon, Mars, Jupiter, Pluto, and an Asteroid!

Model Rocketry

Model rocketry kit building and demonstrations by FlisKits, Inc.  Join
Fliskits educators outdoors on South Field for demonstration rocket launches
from 2:00-2:30 and 7:00-7:30, weather permitting.  Indoor booth will be open
from 3:00-6:45 pm and 7:45-10 pm.

FlisKits, Inc., would like to welcome all rocketeers to our display table on
Astronomy Day (afternoon session only). Old and young, novice and expert,
model and high power, all are welcome. FlisKits, Inc. is a new model rocket
company begun with the hope of bringing some of the FUN back to model
rocketry. (Rocket flights only if weather permits.) (Kits available at
special Astro Day prices.)

Mars Robotic Arm

Simulated Rover Robotic Arm - try it! (continuous)

(courtesy of MRISAR, Institute of Science, Art, and Robotics)

Black Light Tunnel!

See what things look like in Ultraviolet Light. Make invisible ink light up.
(Uses UVB spectrum which is not harmful.)

Class 5 Cosmic Choir

The Dexter and Southfield 5th grade singers present a medley of astronomy
and space science songs accompanied by multi-media images. Many of these
songs are classics that parents will remember from their childhood.
Entertaining
for all ages. Show time:  6:30 pm in the Clay Center Lecture Hall.  Free
admission.

Beginning Astronomy

How to Get Started in Astronomy! - Books, Magazines, Binoculars, and
Telescopes. Information and demonstrations by Bruce Tinkler, ATMoB member.

HAM Radio

Are you a HAM? (Amateur Radio Operator) They can talk to the Space Station !

They report extreme weather conditions (SKYWARN). Listen to them on
shortwave radios. Talk to them on Amateur radios. (courtesy of Bill McIninch
and the Clay Center Amateur Radio Club)

Spectroscopes and Prisms

Hands-on activity about spectra and how to use a spectroscope.  View a
rainbow of colors from simple glowing elements like Helium and Neon.  Courtesy
of Dick and Sonya McKnight.

Astronomy Day 2008 Schedule

Schedule for Major Show and Presentations

Planetariums and LASER shows are 2 or $3 each. Most other activities are
free.

Allow 30 minute time block for planetarium shows and 45 minute time block
for laser shows.

Lectures run about 40 minutes.

Don't forget to register so your family is eligible for the door prize
drawings.

Visit telescopes outside Level 1 and on Level 5. Visit the Stars Court and Moon
Court on Level 2. Visit activities and exhibits on Levels 1 and 2. Visit the
Solar and Wind energy system on the Roof Deck.

2:00 pm

Outdoor Events begin.

FlisKits Rocket launch demonstrations on South Field.

Stunt kite flying and demonstrations on Fuller Field.

Solar Telescopes in front of the Clay Center.

3:00 pm

Doors open for Inside Events. Most activities now open. Tickets on sale for
shows.

3:15 pm

Prismatic Magic Laser Light Show #1, in Lecture Hall, Level 1.

3:30 pm

E-Planetarium 3:30 Show - "It's About Time"

Sky Connection Planetarium 3:30 Show

4:15 pm

Prismatic Magic Laser Light Show #2 in Lecture Hall

Galileo himself, performing on Level 5

4:30 pm

E-Planetarium Show - "Fantasy Worlds"

Sky Connection Planetarium 4:30 Show

Moon rises in the east at 4:18 pm

5:00 pm

George Roberts Planetarium 5:00 pm Show

5:10 pm

Door Prizes drawing #1 on Level 2 balcony

5:15 pm

Prismatic Magic Laser Light Show #3, in Lecture Hall

Astronomy and Space Show - Ron Dantowitz, on Level 5

5:30 pm

E-Planetarium Show "Saturn, The Ring World"

The Sky Connection Planetarium 5:30 Show

6:00 pm

George Roberts Planetarium 6:00 Show

Children's table closes until 6:45

Indoor Kite Flying begins in Athletic Center

6:30 pm

Cosmic Choir - 5th grade Dexter and Southfield singers, in Lecture Hall

6:45 pm

Door Prize Drawing #2, Level 2 Balcony

Sky Connection Planetarium 6:45 show

Children's Table reopens

FlisKits Rocketry booth closes. See rocketry launches at 7:00.

7:00 pm

E-Planetarium Show - "It's About Time"

Galileo performing on Level 5

FlisKits Rocketry demo launches on South Field, weather permitting

7:15 pm

Prismatic Magic Laser Light Show #4, in Lecture Hall

George Roberts Planetarium 7:15 show

7:30 pm

Sunset Watch: Come to the Stars Court or Level 5 Roof Deck. Sunset at 7:40pm.

Planet Venus now visible, with phase of 69% full.

7:45 pm

The Sky Connection Planetarium 7:45 Show

Saturn transits in Leo, alt 64.

FlisKits Rocketry booth reopens

8:00 pm

E-Planetarium Show - "Fantasy Worlds"

8:15 pm

Prismatic Magic Laser Light Show #5, in the Lecture Hall

George Roberts Planetarium 8:15 Show

8:45 p

Door Prize Drawing #3, on Level 2 Balcony

The Sky Connection Planetarium 8:45 Show

9:00 pm

E-Planetarium Show - "Saturn, The Ring World"

Children's Table closes

Indoor Kite Flying in Athletic Center closes

9:15 pm

George Roberts Planetarium 9:15 Show

9:30 pm

Indoor activities begin to close.  Visit night telescopes outside.

Visit the Stars Courtyard on Level 2 lit by fiber optics.

10:00 pm

All activities close
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