UA Astronomers to Hold Public Sky Viewing During Homecoming

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – The University of Alabama’s astronomy department will hold a free public sky viewing, focusing on the moon and Saturn, on campus at the Gallalee Hall telescope on Friday, Nov. 2, at 8 p.m.

If the weather is cloudy, participants will be able to watch the homecoming fireworks from the observatory roof deck.

Dr. Gene Byrd, UA professor of astronomy, will discuss “Our Multicolored Universe” in 227 Gallalee and on the roof deck as the fireworks start. His talk will feature how astronomers use an object’s color to learn about the universe. Byrd will set up spectral tubes that will allow audience members to see spectra using diffraction gratings.

Gallalee Hall is located on the UA campus near the intersection of Hackberry Lane and University Boulevard in Tuscaloosa.

For more information, contact UA’s department of physics and astronomy at 205/348-5050.