Get up close and starring with moon and saturn at the lake

Held at Moondarra Observatory, within the Lions Youth Camp at Lake Moondarra, the evening is an opportunity for people to get a close-up look at the night sky while learning more about astronomy.
The group will also be viewing brighter clusters and nebulae.

“There will be opportunities for everyone to view through the telescopes but in addition we will be using the video imaging system which will display live on an LCD screen where everyone can watch,” group secretary Len Fulham said.

“People who would not normally be able to see through a telescope will still be able to participate if they can normally watch TV.”

The video system is a recent donation from Mount Isa Water and Saturday night will be its first use at a public event.

Mr Fulham said people should plan to arrive at 6.30pm and bring a rug or folding chairs.

Coffee and tea will be available and there will be a charge of $5 per person or $10 per family.

There will also be an opportunity for anyone interested to join the astronomy group. Annual membership is $40.

“There are a lot of people who have an interest in astronomy or who have telescopes but don’t know how to get the best from them,” Mr Fulham said.

“Membership will be a help for these people as well as allowing them to attend all the group functions without extra charge.”