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A look to the skies: Dark Sky Observatory
On Aug. 29, Mars will be at its closest
point to Earth in over 60,000 years. ASU’s Dark Sky Observatory
will open so the community can get a closer look at the Red Planet.
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Kelly
Seaman
Staff Writer |
 Appalachian
State University’s Dark Sky Observatory will be open to the
public for the first time ever. People from Appalachian State and
the community can come see Mars as its closest point to Earth in
more than 60,000 years.
“It’s probably the best thing happening in the sky this
year,” Dr. Dan Caton, professor of astronomy and physics and
director of observatories said.
Starting at 9 p.m. on Aug. 29, the doors of the Dark Sky Observatory
will open for viewing and close at 4 a.m. on Aug. 30. The best times
to see the planet are between 11 p.m. and 1:30 a.m.
There is no fee for this event, but the Dark Sky Observatory will
be accepting donations to help pay for other public programs.
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Jacque Lenz | The Appalachian
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According to Caton, the unique proximity of Mars made opening the
doors a necessity. The Dark Sky Observatory has never had a general
public night. A visitor’s center, which is attached to the
main telescope dome is only two-thirds finished, but will still
be open.
While observing on a clear night, astronomers will make images of
the planet with a scientific digital camera called a CCD, then use
software to measure the brightness.
Caton explained why Mars is different from the other planets.
“Mars is interesting because it is the only planet we can see
from Earth,” Caton said. “Mars has polar ice caps, ice
storms, and it has always been a great public interest since astronomers
back in the 1800s thought they saw canals.”
While waiting for Mars to come into range, the telescope will be
focused on other celestial objects such as stars and galaxies.
The public will be viewing the red planet through a 32-inch telescope,
along with smaller telescopes.
Some Appalachian students are looking forward to this event.
“It’s going to be great to see Mars up close and personal
in the proximity that it is in,” Alexander G. Collins, a rising
sophomore and banking and finance major, said. “I know that
we have spent lots of money on equipment on other technical devices
to basically scan the surface of Mars, although it has met with
success and failure.
“I remember the whole issue about seeing ice caps and that
Mars is possibly habitable. Since water is the basic necessity for
life, it provides us reason to explore Mars further so that we can
start cultivating a new civilization.”
“It’s simply amazing to see another planet from Earth
through a telescope,” A. Karl Wagner, an undeclared sophomore
said. “I am very appreciative that our school is having this
open house and allowing the public to utilize the school’s
resources on such a rare event.”
Others are interested in the mystery of the red planet.
“I know it is referred to as the Earth’s sister planet,”
Jim Warren, evening manager for Plemmons Student Union said. “It’s
been kind of looked on with mystery and a question of life on Mars.
It’s interesting to see what is really there. I am looking
forward to being able to see it through equipment rather than the
naked eye.”
The President of the Women in Physics and Astronomy Club will also
be waiting for Mars to come into range.
“Honestly, I have never been up to the observatory,” said
Marissa J. Detschel, President of Women in Physics and Astronomy
Club. “I am really excited, being able to see Mars—it
hasn’t been this close in 60,000 years. If it’s a really
good night, you will probably see polar icecaps.”
Detschel said she has two telescopes of her own and has been watching
Mars on her porch as it approaches.
“I plan to pursue a career in planetary science,” Detschel
said.
“Mars has always been a main interest—observing it is
definitely a hobby. Actually getting my hands on meteorites from
Mars is what I want to do.”
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