by David Letcher, Outreach Chair

I have three items to report. First, September 30th will see the first of four classes on backyard astronomy offered by the AAAP at the Nature Center at Washington’s Crossing State Park. Each class will be taught by member Dave Letcher with the assistance of member Gene Ramsey. The classes are designed for the preteen to adult age group.

The dates are on Friday evenings, September 30 and October 7, 14, 21 from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. plus one Saturday afternoon for observing the sun and its sunspots.

Each class session will be followed by a visit, weather-permitting, to our observatory for evening observing of the sky.

Second, Cub Scout Pack 556 from in Hopewell has requested to visit our observatory on Saturday, October 22. Of course, this is not a regular open-house night but Jeff Bernardis and Gene Ramsey have volunteered to host the scouts. It would be great if you can help out that night! Bring your telescope if you can.

Third, on the star party front, we have been invited to participate at the Upper Freehold Regional PTA’s “Science Night Live” in Allentown, NJ on Friday, November 18th. This event will be held at the Newell Elementary School. I’ll be sending a request for volunteers and directions in the near future.

That’s all for now!