UA Astronomy Department to Host ‘Mars Fest’ July 6

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The department of physics and astronomy in The University of Alabama College of Arts and Sciences will host “Mars Fest” Friday, July 6, at 8:30 p.m., at the Gallalee Hall observation deck.

Admission to the event is free and open to the general public. Gallalee Hall is located across from the Russell Student Health Center, at the corner of Hackberry Lane and University Boulevard on the UA campus.

The event will offer attendees the opportunity to view the planet Mars through UA’s two refractory telescopes — providing what is expected to be the clearest view of the red planet in more than 10 years.

Also, program coordinators plan to liven up the activities by providing recent photographic images from Mars’ orbit. The playing of Orson Welles’ “War of the Worlds,” and a talk on facts and myths associated with the mysterious planet (no little green men are currently scheduled as guest speakers) will also highlight the evening.

Keel, who is professor of astronomy at UA, said that the event is designed to give people an opportunity to view Mars in a fun and entertaining atmosphere, while also providing a scientific base.

“The last really great view we had was in 1989, so the plan is to feature telescopic viewing of Mars while it’s closer than it has been in about 10 years. The schedule is set by wanting to have Mars close to us (at the closest point it rises right at sunset), but already well above the horizon as soon as it gets dark, since that’s already plenty late in early July,” Keel explained.

“In addition to the lecture, music and ‘War of the Worlds’ soundtrack, we’ll also try to take a swipe at the recent theatrical movies — although I’m not sure yet we’ll be actually showing any of the 50 years worth of bad Mars movies we can find.”

An alternate date has been established in the case of cloudy or inclement weather. In case of postponement, organizers plan to hold the event on Friday, July 13, also at 8:30 p.m. Individuals are encouraged to call 205/348-5050 with any questions pertaining to the possibility of cancellation.