Wagman Observatory Star Parties, Friday and Saturday, August 25 and 26, 2017, 8:00PM
See a region of space where stars are being born, catch a dazzling view of Jupiter and see Saturn’s rings in the evening sky. Marvel at our Milky Way Galaxy’s finest planetary nebulae, star clusters. See the Hercules Cluster, the Ring Nebula and the Andromeda Galaxy. Amateur Astronomers Association of Pittsburgh at the AAAP’s Wagman Observatory August 25 and 26 Star Parties.
This invitation to amateur astronomers, students and the general public is part of AAAP’s annual series of star parties occurring March – November at the Wagman and Mingo Observatories. There is no charge for these events, although donations are appreciated. Read more about Star Parties here.
These August 25 & 26, 2017 Wagman Star Parties create an opportunity to view the July sky: Jupiter and several of its moons, followed by Saturn, its rings and some of its moons, the dazzling Hercules Cluster, the Ring Nebula and much more.
Regardless of your experience or ability level you will be welcome to join the throng of avid sky watchers. Perhaps you have a telescope and do not know how to use it? Bring it along and members of the AAAP will help! Likewise if you are considering a telescope purchase or the addition of accessories, star charts and books Wagman is a good place to start. Members of the AAAP will help!
The Star Parties will be held WEATHER PERMITTING. The public should call 724-224-2510 for more information. The Nicholas E. Wagman Observatory is located in Deer Lakes Regional Park, Frazer Township, Pa., near the village of Russellton in northeastern Allegheny County and some 18 miles from Pittsburgh. Coordinates: Latitude 40.627 degrees N, Longitude 79.813 degrees W. Map and Directions under the About Tab at www.3ap.org and here.
Admission is free, though we gladly accept donations to cover the cost of operation. To reach Wagman Observatory, follow the Orange Belt (accessible from Routes 8 and 28) to Deer Lakes Park, near Russellton. Follow the road through the Park for 1.2 miles and turn left on to the Observatory grounds. Please use parking lights only when you drive through the gate. In the observing rooms or near the outside telescopes please avoid use of bright lights: cell phones, white lights or flashlights, glow sticks, etc. and especially no flash photograph. There is no smoking permitted anywhere on the site. Planning for next year? Wagman Observatory’s 2018 Star Party Dates have been published.
For updates, check back here and AAAP Facebook or phone the observatory, 724-224-2510, the night of the event. Wagman Observatory Clear Sky Chart.