Stargazing

The wonders of the universe are coming to the wetlands! Join the Fort Hays State University Astronomy Club on Friday, October 9 from 8:30-10pm for an evening of stargazing at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful celestial objects visible in the autumn sky. Club members will set up several telescopes and share their knowledge of astronomy with participants of all ages. Whether you are a seasoned skywatcher or looking through a telescope for the very first time, this event offers a chance to experience the night sky in a whole new way. Throughout the evening, guests will have opportunities to view a variety of deep sky objects, including: Saturn – One of the most recognizable planets in our solar system, famous for its spectacular ring system. M31 (The Andromeda Galaxy) – The closest major galaxy to our own Milky Way and visible as a faint smudge of light to the unaided eye under dark skies. M45 (The Pleiades) – Often called the Seven Sisters, this bright open star cluster is one of the most stunning sights through binoculars and telescopes. M24 (The Sagittarius Star Cloud) – A rich region of stars within our own galaxy that appears as a bright patch along the Milky Way. M6 (The Butterfly Cluster) – An open star cluster whose stars form a pattern resembling the wings of a butterfly. M7 (The Ptolemy Cluster) – One of the largest and brightest open clusters in the night sky. In addition to telescopes, the Astronomy Club will bring an astrocamera, allowing visitors to see how astronomers capture detailed images of celestial objects. Participants will learn how modern astronomical cameras can reveal colors, structures, and details that are often difficult to see with the human eye alone. The event is a unique opportunity to combine science, exploration, and the natural beauty of the wetlands after dark. Astronomy Club members will be available throughout the evening to answer questions about the objects being observed, telescope equipment, astrophotography, and careers in astronomy and science. The program is free to the public and suitable for families, students, and anyone with an interest in the night sky. Participants are encouraged to dress for the weather. Come discover distant galaxies, sparkling star clusters, and the rings of Saturn while learning from local astronomy enthusiasts.