Special Events
Night Skies in the Observatory
2010 Night Skies in the Observatory Schedule
September 9 - Our Boiling Sun - D. Pitts
Our star's level of activity has been steadily increasing for about two years. Scientists say it will peak around 2015. What effect will that have on us and what can we do to protect ourselves.
October 14 - Space Tourism 2012 - D. Pitts
Looking for a new vacation spot with a view to die for? I know just the place...
November 11 - Astronomy for Couch Potatoes: Astronomical Exploration by Computer
Bringing the universe into your living room has become a reality for everyone from researchers to bored 8 year olds. Come see how far out you can go with just a laptop and a track pad.
Topic to be announced for the following date:
December 9.
Schedule subject to change.
About Night Skies in the Observatory
Hosted by Chief Astronomer at The Franklin Institute, Derrick Pitts, the Joel N. Bloom Observatory is open late to the public and offers 5 different telescopes for you to view celestial objects in the sky, including stars, planets, nebulae, and if conditions are right, a galaxy or two. The evening includes a Fels Planetarium show and a lecture or presentation (appropriate for all ages) on an astronomical or space science topic. The Observatory is staffed with knowledgeable observers and free star maps are provided. Meet some BIG STARS on the second Thursday of each month at The Franklin Institute! The event is held from 6-9pm all months except June, July, and August when the event is held 7-10pm! Admission is $5.00. Members are free.
To learn more about the Joel N. Bloom Observatory click here.
QUIZZO-PATRA
Cleopatra-themed Quizzo hosted by Philadelphia favorite Johnny Goodtimes
Date: Friday, September 10
Time: 7:00PM-9:00PM
Location: Fels Planetarium
FREE with advance registration, please call 215-448-1254.
Cash bar available.
How old was Cleopatra when she died? What is the current capital of Egypt? Who recorded the #1 hit song "Walk Like an Egyptian?"
How much do you really know about Egypt and its legendary queen? On Friday, September 10, put your Cleopatra knowledge to the test and compete to win tickets to Cleopatra: The Search for the Last Queen of Egypt when Philadelphia favorite Johnny Goodtimes hosts the first-ever QUIZZO-PATRA contest. Join us for a Friday night celebration of Cleopatra's partying ways with an evening of revelry and trivia. Quizzo is free with advance registration and features a cash bar.
Author Event: Duane Roller, Cleopatra: A Biography
Thursday, September 23 @ 7 PM
Event is free with advance registration. Please call 215-448-1254.
Meet Duane Roller, author of the recently released Cleopatra: A Biography. The first book to explore the queen's life solely from the source material of the period, Roller shows us that despite her accomplishments and wide range of influence, Cleopatra has too often been subordinated to the men in her life—men such as Julius Caesar and Marcus Antonius who were subordinate to her. Please join us to learn more about the intriguing tale of the woman who almost took over the world, as Roller shares a treasure trove of fascinating detail. Book-signing to follow.
Educators' Night Out
Register Now!
September 29, 2010
All Educators are invited to attend this popular annual event. CLICK HERE for more information.
Calling All Astronomers!
Rittenhouse Astronomical Society Monthly Meetings!
Bring all of your out-of-this-world questions!
Join The Rittenhouse Astronomical Society on the second Wednesday of each month at 7:30PM in the Fels Planetarium. The society offers all persons an opportunity to participate in the activities of an astronomical group at the layman's level. They aim to spread knowledge, awareness, and enjoyment of astronomy and astronomical issues. It is a popular science club that keeps its members up-to-date on the latest developments. No experience is necessary to attend the FREE meetings. Come with your astronomy questions! www.rittenhouseastronomicalsociety.org