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August 05, 2022
SIU star viewing party set for Aug. 6
CARBONDALE, Ill. – Southern Illinois University Carbondale and its partners will host a star viewing party from 7 p.m. to midnight Saturday, Aug. 6, at the SIU Farms Astronomy Observation Area west of Carbondale.
The event, put on hold for two years by the COVID-19 pandemic, is a collaboration among the university, the Astronomical Association of Southern Illinois and the Adler Planetarium of Chicago. The Southern Illinois Star Party marks roughly 20 months until the next total solar eclipse slated to hit the area April 8, 2024.
A free shuttle service will operate from campus parking lot 63, located just northeast of the Lesar Law Building, to the observation location. Because of space and traffic flow limitations, organizers encourage participants to use the service.
There will be limited concessions at the event, and participants are welcome to bring their own food, drinks and coolers. Portable sanitary units also will be on site, but no electrical service.
Lighting at the site will be kept at a minimum for better star viewing. Volunteers also will be operating several telescopes and small-group activities.