October 23, 2025

FMU Hosts Community-Focused Star Party

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.