News Summary
Francis Marion University successfully held a public star party at the FMU Observatory, attracting a mix of community members and students. The event featured opportunities to observe the planet Saturn and several deep sky objects using various telescopes. Organized by the university’s astronomy faculty and students, the event fostered interest in astronomy and strengthened community engagement, promising similar gatherings in the future.
Florence, South Carolina – Francis Marion University (FMU) successfully hosted a public star party on Saturday, October 18, attracting a diverse crowd of astronomy enthusiasts. The event took place from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the FMU Observatory, showcasing the beauty of the night sky, particularly the planet Saturn and various deep sky objects.
The star party was organized by Professor of Astronomy and Director of Dooley Planetarium, Jeannette Myers, along with student assistants Austin Coleman and Sidney Isenberg. They guided attendees in using telescopes for an amazing stargazing experience, including the impressive Dobsonian telescope which enabled guests to see Saturn with its rings prominently displayed.
To enhance the stargazing experience, the Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope was also available indoors. This advanced telescope, operated with GPS technology under Myers’ supervision, was used to view the famous Dumbbell Nebula, also known as Messier 27 or M27. This telescope featured a camera that provided live images on an outdoor monitor, allowing those waiting to view the skies a real-time glimpse of the celestial wonders.
Regular binoculars were also offered for attendees wishing to engage in stargazing, although they provided less detail compared to the telescopes. Guests were encouraged to preserve their night vision by turning off phone flashes and flashlights; instead, glow sticks were provided as an alternative. A brochure detailing future observatory viewing dates was distributed to enhance ongoing interest.
The event was titled “Saturn, Deep Sky Objects” and directed attendees to the observatory located behind the Smith University Center, past the soccer and softball fields, easily recognizable by its white dome. The warm atmosphere amidst chilly weather contributed to the good spirits of the attendees, which included families with children, student couples, and individuals seeking to broaden their astronomy knowledge for academic purposes.
Significant attendance included many community members beyond the FMU student population, demonstrating a keen interest in astronomy and community engagement. Gratitude was expressed by attendees as they left, emphasizing the success of the event and the desire for future similar gatherings. Additional information about future events can be obtained by contacting Myers via email or checking FMU’s event calendar.
This successful star party not only fulfilled its educational purpose but also strengthened community ties through a shared love for astronomy, underscoring FMU’s role as a hub for learning and exploration in Florence, South Carolina.
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Additional Resources
- Patriot News Online: FMU Observatory Star Party
- Wikipedia: Astronomy
- AP News: Caitlin Clark’s Scoring Record
- Google Search: Astronomy Events
- Blythewood Online: Mattox Signs with Francis Marion
- Google Scholar: Francis Marion University
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Deep Sky Object
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
