- Details
- Category: Parktakes Courses
Summer Solstice Celebration - Public Event
Wednesday June 19 12 Noon to 2 PM
Come to a Summer Solstice celebration public event at Observatory Park at Turner Farm. Learn about the path of the Sun on the solstice, the seasons of the year, sundials, observe the Sun through solar telescopes, and take a Solar System walk. Event is from 12 Noon to 2 PM Wednesday June 19. The Summer Solstice is on Thursday June 20, but we are holding the event 1 day early on the Juneteenth holiday. School and Scout groups welcome but recommend contacting us in advance via Analemma website email to coordinate. Event may be canceled if raining. Check the Analemma.org website or @AnalemmaSociety twitter account for event updates.
This event sponsored by the Analemma Society and are free with no registration needed. The event is weather dependent, canceled if too cloudy or raining. Please dress appropriately for the outside weather. Information and updates on the events will be posted to the analemma.org website and the @AnalemmaSociety twitter account.
Perseid Meteor Shower - Public Event
Sunday August 11 8:30 PM to Midnight
Come to Observatory Park at Turner Farm and watch the annual Perseid meteor shower. Meteor showers are best viewed with your unaided eyes, laying in a lawn chair or on a blanket looking up at the sky. Attendees can bring portable chairs & blankets and should dress for the nighttime temperatures. Binoculars are also useful for viewing the night sky while sitting or lying down. Park will be open from 8:30 PM to 12 AM. Event is weather dependent, will be cancelled if raining or heavy cloud cover. Check the Analemma.org website or @AnalemmaSociety twitter account for event updates.
This event sponsored by the Analemma Society and are free with no registration needed. The event is weather dependent, canceled if too cloudy or raining. Please dress appropriately for the outside weather. Information and updates on the events will be posted to the analemma.org website and the @AnalemmaSociety twitter account.
Calendar
| Date | Time | Title | Age |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wed April 24 2024 | 8:00PM | Telescope Observing for Beginners | 8-Adult |
| Fri April 26 2024 | 8:00PM-10:00PM | Free Public Night Observing | All Ages |
| Fri May 3 2024 | 8:00PM-10:00PM | Free Public Night Observing | All Ages |
| Sat May 4 2024 | 11AM | The Sun: Our Neighborhood Star | 8-Adult |
| Sat May 4 2024 | 7:30PM | Fairfax Poet Laureate - Poetry Beneath the Stars | 8-Adult |
| Fri May 10 2024 | 8:30PM-10:30PM | Free Public Night Observing | All Ages |
| Mon May 13 2024 | 8 PM | Night Sky Tour at the Roll-Top Observatory | 8-Adult |
| Fri May 17 2024 | 8:30PM-10:30PM | Free Public Night Observing | All Ages |
| Sat May 18 2024 | 8-10 AM | Basics of Birding | 10-Adult |
| Mon May 20 2024 | 8 PM | Introduction to Astronomy - The Cosmic Distance Ladder | 8-Adult |
| Fri May 24 2024 | 8:30PM-10:30PM | Free Public Night Observing | All Ages |
| Fri May 31 2024 | 8:30PM-10:30PM | Free Public Night Observing | All Ages |
| Wed June 5 2024 | 8 PM | Meteorites - Exploring Visitors from Space | 8-Adult |
| Fri June 7 2024 | 8:30PM-10:30PM | Free Public Night Observing | All Ages |
| Fri June 14 2024 | 8:30PM-10:30PM | Free Public Night Observing | All Ages |
| Mon June 17 2024 | 8 PM | Rainbows, Haloes, Glories | 8-Adult |
| Wed June 19 2024 | Noon - 2 PM | Free Celebrate the Summer Solstice at Observatory Park | 8-Adult |
| Fri June 14 2024 | 8:30PM-10:30PM | Free Public Night Observing | All Ages |
| Fri June 21 2024 | 8:30PM-10:30PM | Free Public Night Observing | All Ages |
| Wed June 26 2024 | 8 PM | Introduction to Astronomy - Calendars & Clocks | 8-Adult |
| Fri June 28 2024 | 8:30PM-10:30PM | Free Public Night Observing | All Ages |
| Tue July 2 2024 | 8 PM | Exploring Exoplanets - Unveiling New Worlds | 8-Adult |
| Fri July 5 2024 | 8:30PM-10:30PM | Free Public Night Observing | All Ages |
| Fri June 12 2024 | 8:30PM-10:30PM | Free Public Night Observing | All Ages |
| Sat July 13 2024 | 11 AM | Taking a Look at our Sun -Safe Solar Viewing | 8-Adult |
| Mon July 15 2024 | 8 PM | Looking at the Moon | 8-Adult |
| Wed July 17 2024 | 8 PM | Introduction to Telescopes | 8-Adult |
| Fri July 19 2024 | 8:30PM-10:30PM | Free Public Night Observing | All Ages |
| Sat July 20 2024 | 11 AM | The Strange Shape of Sundials | 8-Adult |
| Wed July 24 2024 | 8 PM | Night Sky Tour at the Roll-Top Observatory | 8-Adult |
| Fri July 26 2024 | 8:30PM-10:30PM | Free Public Night Observing | All Ages |
| Tue Aug 6 2024 | 8 PM | Night Sky Tour at the Roll-Top Observatory | 8-Adult |
| Fri Aug 2 2024 | 8:30PM-10:30PM | Free Public Night Observing | All Ages |
| Fri Aug 9 2024 | 8:30PM-10:30PM | Free Public Night Observing | All Ages |
| Sun Aug 11 2024 | 8:30 PM - Midnight | Free - Perseid Meteor Shower Public Viewing at Observatory Park | 8-Adult |
| Wed Aug 14 2024 | 8 PM | Telescope Observing for Beginners | 8-Adult |
| Fri Aug 16 2024 | 8:00PM-10:00PM | Free Public Night Observing | All Ages |
| Sat Aug 17 2024 | 7:30 PM | Fairfax Poet Laureate Poetry Under the Stars | 8-Adult |
| Wed Aug 21 2024 | 8 PM | Introduction to Astronomy - Galaxies: The Milky Way & Beyond | 8-Adult |
| Fri Aug 23 2024 | 8:00PM-10:00PM | Free Public Night Observing | All Ages |
| Sat Aug 24 2024 | 11 AM | The Sun – Our Neighborhood Star | 8-Adult |
| Wed Aug 28 2024 | 8 PM | Night Sky Tour at the Roll-Top Observatory | 8-Adult |
| Fri Aug 30 2024 | 8:00PM-10:00PM | Free Public Night Observing | All Ages |
Register at: http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes/.
Locate our astronomy programs under Turner Farm Park (place selection) at the FCPA Parktakes website. http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks Our events and programs are under “Science and Technology” or “Events” category. Age range for our Parktakes programs is 8 to Adult unless otherwise stated. You must register for these classes in advance.
The Parktakes courses are held rain or clear skies in the Roll-Top Observatory unless otherwise stated.
Free Public Night Observing on Friday Nights and special public events do not require registration.
Please dress appropriately for the outside weather. The nighttime programs will include night sky tours and looking through telescopes. Check the @AnalemmaSociety twitter account and http://www.analemma.org/Analemma observing tab for update tweets prior to the event.
Roll-Top Course Descriptions
Introduction to Astronomy
Instructors Analemma Society Staff
TThis course provides a general introduction to some fundamentals of astronomy and the universe we see in the sky around us. We will discuss the basic types of astronomical objects from the small to the large, the motions of the planets and stars, and interesting phenomena we can observe in the sky. The course covers different subjects in astronomy from class to class. Classroom discussion is followed by an observing session with telescopes, weather permitting. Be sure to register at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes/
Introduction To Telescopes
Instructors: Alan Figgatt and the Analemma Society Staff
Now that you have received a new telescope, how do you set it up and use it? Or are you considering buying a telescope? This course goes into introductory basics of Astronomy, observing the sky, and what you need to know to setup and use your telescope. Will provide hands-on use of telescopes and observing objects in the sky in the Roll-Top Observatory if the weather allows. Attendees can bring their own telescope for assistance and advice. Be sure to register at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes/
Telescope Observing for Beginners
Instructors: Analemma Society Staff
This course covers for beginner and less experienced telescope users the basics of observing the night sky and objects with a telescope and astronomy resources you might use. Will provide hands-on observing with telescopes if the weather allows. Attendees can bring their own telescopes to use and for assistance. Supplements the “Introduction to Telescopes” class but can be taken independently. Be sure to register at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes/
Night Sky Tour at the Roll-Top Observatory
Instructor: Analemma Society Staff
This program is a fun tour of planets, constellations, stars, nebulas, and galaxies in the night sky that can be seen with the eye and in telescopes. No knowledge of astronomy is needed, just an interest in learning about the universe around our planet. The classroom discussion is followed by an observing session with telescopes, weather permitting. If inclement weather, then we may offer a virtual sky tour. Be sure to register at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes/
Taking a Look at our Sun -Safe Solar Viewing
Instructor: Sebastian Arnex
Discover the scientific insights of our nearest star, the Sun, while learning how to observe it safely. Our "Safe Solar Viewing" course is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills required to view the Sun without risking eye damage. Whether you're an amateur astronomer, a curious science enthusiast, or simply want to understand our solar system better, this course provides a comprehensive understanding of solar phenomena and the tools and techniques to observe them securely.Be sure to register at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes/
The Sun: Our Neighborhood Star
Instructor: Cal Powell
This presentation will cover what causes the Sun to shine, the Sun's life cycle, and how the Sun compares to other stars. We will also discuss features on the Sun and how to view the Sun safely. The classroom discussion is accompanied by an observing session of the Sun with solar telescopes, weather permitting. Be sure to register at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes/
Rainbows, Haloes, and Glories
Instructor: Jeff Kretsch
Monday, July 17, 8PM
Covers common and some uncommon phenomena people can see in the day or night sky such as rainbows, haloes and glories. We will also cover sunrise and sunset phenomena like the green flash, the purple light, and simple questions like why the sky is blue and why sunsets are orange. This simple course will teach people how to better appreciate the sky both day and night. The discussion is followed by an observing session with telescopes, weather permitting. Be sure to register at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes/
Looking at the Moon
Instructor: Cal Powell
Monday, July 15, 8 PM
This program covers basic information about the Earth's natural satellite, the Moon. Learn how to view and recognize features on the Moon's surface even with a small telescope. The class includes observing the Moon and other objects in the night sky with telescopes, weather permitting. Be sure to register at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes/
Meteorites Exploring Visitors from Space
Instructor: Cal Powell
Monday, June 5, 8 PM
What are meteorites? Where do they come from? What do they tell us? This course is an introduction to these visitors from outer space, suitable for children and adults. Participants will have an opportunity to touch and examine actual meteorites including specimens from the Moon and the planet Mars. After the class, look through the telescopes in the observatory, weather permitting. Be sure to register at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes/
The Strange Shape of Sundials
Instructor: Robert Kellogg
Saturday, July 20, 11 AM
What can you hear from space? Join the adventure to understand cosmic noise and what it tells us about the sun, the magnetic structure surrounding some of our planets and the radio signals from Jupiter. Then learn how our galaxy is mapped using the faint signals from hydrogen atoms and the behavior of molecules. Listen to the sounds of pulsars, strange dense fast rotating stars. Come hear what our universe is saying. The discussion is followed by an observing session with telescopes, weather permitting. Be sure to register at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes/
Exploring Exoplanets - Unveiling New Worlds
Instructor: Sebastian Arnez
Explore planets orbiting distant stars and learn how scientists find them using cool techniques like watching stars flicker or wobble. Dive into what these planets are made of, whether they could host life, and catch up on the latest discoveries. Perfect for anyone curious about space, this course promises an eye-opening adventure into the exploration of planets beyond our own. Be sure to register at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes/
Fairfax
Poet Laureate - Poetry Beneath the Stars
Instructor: Fairfax Poet Laureate
Write a poem while gazing at the night sky to see if you can find a shooting star! During this program you will be asked to dig deep and contemplate the cosmos through poetic form. Examples of star-gazing poetry and writing prompts will be provided. This event will include telescope viewing in the Roll Top Observatory, weather permitting. Hosted by Arts Fairfax and the Fairfax Poet Laureate as part of the “Poetry in the Parks” series. Be sure to register at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes/
Basics of Birding
Instructor: Bill Burton
Watching birds is a great way to connect with the natural world around us. Tour the park on foot developing your birding skills with the help of a printed guide and learn about other birding resources in the classroom. Binoculars recommended; a few pairs will be available for use. Children 10-16 must be accompanied by registered adult. Be sure to register at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes/
- Details
- Category: Parktakes Courses
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Bill Burton Class - Exploring Mars |
This has been an extraordinary year for Analemma Society and its volunteers at Observatory Park at Turner Farm. Analemma Society has contributed to Fairfax County with opportunities for education, stimulating interest in astronomy, and serving the community. During 2022 Analemma Society presented 77 astronomy courses and events through Fairfax County Park Authority, with courses such as "Introduction to Telescopes", "Nebulas, Star Clusters & Galaxies Oh My!", "Stargazing with Binoculars" and many more interesting topics. This resulted in a 2022 total attendance of 1623 adults, students and children, garnering nearly $24,000 for Fairfax County Parks.
In addition, Analemma Society continues to provide free Friday Night Public Observing. This year more that 4000 adults and young people have come to these Friday night observing sessions as well as watching meteor showers on the lawn and coming out for an early morning lunar eclipse. By the end of 2022, each Friday night more than 100 adults and young people attend the Friday night sessions to learn about astronomy, see the pattern of stars that make up constellations in the sky, and look through telescopes at the cosmos with an observing list that typically includes the moon, planets, star clusters, nebulae, and a galaxy or two.
To make all this possible, Analemma Society members have contributed nearly 1700 volunteer hours. A new member to the Analemma Society emailed "Tonight was a blast! ..."
To make the Friday night public observing and Partakes classes happen,Analemma Society thanks the following volunteers: Jeff Kretsch, Alan Figgatt, Gerald Kassalow, Colleen O’Brien, Bill Burton, James Nguyen, Dan Ward, Blake Spendley, Steven Powell, Kaushik Nagakar, Jonathon Cross, Mike McHugh, Alex Nguyen, Calvin Powell, Gary Szpatura, Mary Blessing, Christina and Kevin Wenks and from Riverbend, Bridget McArdle and many others. Happy New Year.
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- Category: Parktakes Courses
This summer Fairfax County Park Authority is sponsoring the Discovery Trail Map program where this summer there are 12 sites in Fairfax County. Turner Farm Observatory Park is one of those sites this summer. FCPA invites people to visit at least eight of the sites to learn about transportation and the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11.
You may "earn" a sticker by attending one of the eight FCPA ParkTakes astronomy seminars offered at Turner Farm Observatory Park or attend free public sky viewing on clear Friday nights at Turner Farm's Roll-Top Observatory. These events are hosted by Analemma Society volunteers and several other organizations. Volunteers presenting the programs will distribute DTM stickers to those who request them.
Participate in the Discovery Trail Map program and learn about the mysteries of the universe through ParkTakes seminars and observe celestial wonders, our moon and planets on clear Friday nights.