SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY – The San Bernardino County Library is hosting a stargazing and lunar event, April 12, that will allow the community to explore the wonders of the night sky using the library’s recently installed observatory.
“The new observatory is an incredible asset for our patrons, and we’re thrilled to highlight its potential with an enchanting evening of stargazing and astrophotography,” said County Librarian Melanie Orosco.
Stargazers will have the chance to view the April full moon, commonly known as the “Pink Moon,” through smaller telescope stations ideal for celestial observation.
During the event, families can participate in STEAM activities, an opportunity drawing, and a presentation on the new observatory’s capabilities.
New $200,000 observatory
The Lucerne Valley Branch Library unveiled its new $200,000 observatory last summer at its inaugural event. The project is a collaboration with the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors and Tierra Luna Engineering, an aerospace consulting firm founded by former NASA astronaut José M. Hernández.
The observatory features a 3-meter motorized ScopeDome equipped with robotic telescopes capable of automatic focusing and rotation. It also has advanced imaging and guide cameras.
All 32 branches of the San Bernardino County Library System can remotely access and operate the observatory, allowing students and residents across the county to view stars, galaxies and other celestial objects.
Stargazing event information
The stargazing and lunar event is taking place April 12 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Janice Horst Lucerne Valley Branch Library located at 33103 Old Woman Springs Rd. in Lucerne Valley.
For more information call the branch at (760) 248-7521.
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