Warren Rupp Observatory held the first Public Night of 2014 last Saturday. The Observatory, located on the grounds of Friendly House Hidden Hollow Camp on Possum Run Road, will be open to the public the first Saturday of each month until November, unless otherwise noted on their calendar. And Monday visitors can view the full lunar eclipse.
The observatory is operated by the Richland Astronomical Society (RAS), a nonprofit organization with a mission to provide education in the field of astronomy, for both members and the public.
Warren Rupp Foundation, through various grants, funded the site as well as the construction of the dome and the purchase of “Big Blue,” a 36 inch Newtonian telescope housed in the dome, according to Mike Romine, President and board member of RAS.
Hidden Hollow boasts some of the darkest skies in the area, which makes for excellent astronomical viewing. Red lights illuminate the area surrounding the observatory, as well as inside the buildings, to avoid disturbing the night vision of star gazers.
Romine noted that on April 14, beginning at 9 p.m. the public is welcome to join the RAS members at the observatory to witness a full lunar eclipse. The eclipse, Romine added, will not actually take place until approximately 2 a.m. on Tuesday.
The moon will be in the earth’s shadow until 5:33 a.m., and viewing may be obscured by trees toward the end of the penumbral eclipse.
RAS members welcome visitors. The club is made up of all ages, including teens and families, from all walks of life. For those interested in joining, membership is $40 per year for an individual and $60 per year for families, added Romine.
Visitors to the observatory may look through “Big Blue,” or bring their own telescopes, and RAS members are always willing to let someone take a peek through theirs.
“People here are more than willing to help you in any way, shape, or form,” said Romine. “Anything you want to know, someone is here to tell you. Each and every person out here is more than willing to grab you and say, ‘Hey, take a look at this!’ They will give you any and all information you could possibly want.”
RAS offers educational outreach programs for schools, libraries, and groups. All programs are free, but donations are welcome.
The observatory is located at 5127 Possum Run Road. Public hours on the first Saturday of each month are from dusk til 11:30 p.m. Special events open to the public are offered each month, as well.
All events are “weather permitting” and visitors are encouraged to check the calendar* for cancellations and changes. Visitors are encouraged to drive slowly along the hill. A red lens flashlight is suggested, as are warm clothing and snacks.
Each and every person out here is more than willing to grab you and say, ‘Hey, take a look at this!’ They will give you any and all information you could possibly want,” said Mike Romine.
