The South Florida Amateur Astronomers Association is inviting residents to free telescope-viewing events across the region, including a celebration at Big Cypress National Preserve on Saturday, Nov. 7.
The preserve marks the 10th anniversary of its International Dark Sky Park designation with activities at the Nathaniel P. Reed Visitor Center, 33100 Tamiami Trail East in Ochopee. Exhibits, demonstrations, telescopes and astrophotography displays run from noon to 5:30 p.m., with local astronomy groups taking part. At 6:30 p.m., the National Park Service plans an evening program farther down Seagrape Drive, followed by telescope viewing if the weather cooperates. Visitors should bring chairs, insect repellent and red flashlights to protect their night vision.
Closer to home, the group offers free public viewing every Saturday evening at Fox Observatory in Markham Park in Sunrise, weather permitting. The next session was scheduled for Halloween.
The association also takes astronomy programs to schools, parks and neighborhoods. Past stops include Fern Forest Nature Center and Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. Volunteers say they hope to spark interest in science, math and physics, especially among young people. Schools, community groups and civic associations can request their own events at no cost. Hosts need an open area with limited artificial light, parking for equipment and advance publicity. The group supplies telescopes, equipment and volunteers.
Coconut Creek resident John Warner, a member of the association, helps promote the programs and sets up a telescope in his driveway each Halloween for neighborhood families.
