A star-studded evening in Newport
Things will be looking up in Newport during Dog Days and Starry Nights, held at Frank Wade Park this Friday, Aug. 16.
The event will be hosted by local cosmic enthusiast and artist Jeremy Likness, who will guide you to the celestial wonders of the night skies over Newport, and spill the cosmic beans on what's visible in our summer skies, from star clusters and planets to our very own Milky Way.
He'll even reveal the identity of the intergalactic canine responsible for the phrase "Dog Days." Following the presentation, the evening will reach astronomical proportions with a live telescope-assisted adventure through space.
“We are excited to host our first Star Party and bring such a fun, unique and educational experience to the community,” said Newport Parks and Recreation Program Specialist Jenni Remillard. “Jeremy’s telescope can be projected, giving everyone in attendance the
ability to have an up-close look at the night sky at the same time.”
Some of the sights shown through the telescope will be the landing sites of three
Apollo missions on the detailed surface of the moon, the spiral arms of our nearest
neighbor, the Andromeda Galaxy, and an examination of why some people claim Saturn's rings have "disappeared."
During the event, please use your parking lights instead of headlights to avoid excess light if arriving late or leaving early. Flashlights are helpful for getting to and from your car, but use a red filter if possible and try to keep all extra lights to a minimum. Keep your phone on the dimmest setting possible and try to avoid using it to maintain your night vision and that of your immediate neighbors.
The event begins at 8:30 pm at Frank Wade Memorial Field, located at 1445 NE Big Creek Road in Newport. For more information, including cancellations due to adverse weather conditions, go to the Newport Parks and Recreation page on Facebook or call 541-265-4859.
Schedule:
8:30 pm - What’s visible in Newport's summer skies
9 pm - Equipment review
9:30 to 11 pm - Live viewing