Opportunity to Observe Venus, Jupiter, and the Moon at Costa Rica's Planetarium
Free public astronomy event at the University of Costa Rica on February 7, featuring telescopic views and expert-led discussions.
On February 7, 2024, the Planetarium of the University of Costa Rica (UCR) will host a free public event for astronomy enthusiasts to observe the celestial bodies Venus, Jupiter, and the Moon.
This initiative, known as the 'telescopiada,' is designed to encourage interest in science and astronomy among the community.
The event was scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. at UCR's Ciudad de la Investigación. Attendees will have access to telescopes and the opportunity to participate in guided observations led by specialists.
Expert discussions will also be part of the program, aiming to enhance the educational experience of the participants.
Entry to the event is free, and attendees can access the Planetarium via the entrance near the Laboratorio Nacional de Materiales y Modelos Estructurales (Lanamme).
Observations with telescopes will continue into the early hours of the following morning.
On February 8, from 10 a.m., the Planetarium will host additional talks, culminating in a concert titled 'Música bajo las estrellas' starting at 5 p.m., along with food stalls on site.
Victor Fung, coordinator of the Asociación Costarricense de Astronomía (Acodea), noted the Moon will be in its first quarter phase, which will allow for enhanced visibility of its craters and surface features due to the angle of sunlight illuminating it.
Fung estimated that approximately 80% of attendees may have never experienced observing celestial bodies through a telescope before, making this event a unique opportunity.
Jupiter will also be a highlight, with the potential for viewers to see it as a mini solar system, along with its four largest moons, known as the Galilean moons—Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto—first observed by Galileo Galilei in 1610.
Fung explained that this observation could provide insights into the structure of Jupiter, including its characteristic dark and light equatorial bands, which represent different cloud layers.
Venus will also be viewable in its crescent phase, shrouded in clouds that obscure its surface.
The event will guide participants in identifying significant constellations in the night sky.
The initiative has been designed to promote scientific awareness and appreciation of astronomy within Costa Rica, allowing community members of all ages to engage with these spectacular celestial phenomena.
This initiative, known as the 'telescopiada,' is designed to encourage interest in science and astronomy among the community.
The event was scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. at UCR's Ciudad de la Investigación. Attendees will have access to telescopes and the opportunity to participate in guided observations led by specialists.
Expert discussions will also be part of the program, aiming to enhance the educational experience of the participants.
Entry to the event is free, and attendees can access the Planetarium via the entrance near the Laboratorio Nacional de Materiales y Modelos Estructurales (Lanamme).
Observations with telescopes will continue into the early hours of the following morning.
On February 8, from 10 a.m., the Planetarium will host additional talks, culminating in a concert titled 'Música bajo las estrellas' starting at 5 p.m., along with food stalls on site.
Victor Fung, coordinator of the Asociación Costarricense de Astronomía (Acodea), noted the Moon will be in its first quarter phase, which will allow for enhanced visibility of its craters and surface features due to the angle of sunlight illuminating it.
Fung estimated that approximately 80% of attendees may have never experienced observing celestial bodies through a telescope before, making this event a unique opportunity.
Jupiter will also be a highlight, with the potential for viewers to see it as a mini solar system, along with its four largest moons, known as the Galilean moons—Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto—first observed by Galileo Galilei in 1610.
Fung explained that this observation could provide insights into the structure of Jupiter, including its characteristic dark and light equatorial bands, which represent different cloud layers.
Venus will also be viewable in its crescent phase, shrouded in clouds that obscure its surface.
The event will guide participants in identifying significant constellations in the night sky.
The initiative has been designed to promote scientific awareness and appreciation of astronomy within Costa Rica, allowing community members of all ages to engage with these spectacular celestial phenomena.
