Mars and the Orion nebula showcased at Osten Observatory April open house

Mars and the Orion nebula will be viewed at a special open house Thursday, April 11, from 8:30 to 10 p.m. at the Osten Observatory on Concordia’s campus.

“April is a good month to see a wide variety of objects in the sky from a very good look at the moon, to a view of the planet Mars, a large cluster of stars and the Orion nebula where stars are forming,” said Dr. Robert Hermann, professor of physics. 

Hermann will provide a brief explanation of each object and will answer questions from attendees. There is no set program so visitors can come at any time during the open house. However, visitors are urged to check the weather before they arrive as it can change quickly. If the sky is cloudy, or if it is very windy at the time the observatory is scheduled to open, the viewing will be canceled for the night. 

The observatory is located on the northeast corner of Concordia’s campus on East Hillcrest Drive in Seward. Visitors should be prepared to walk across a short length of field as the path to the observatory is not paved. There is also a step up to be able to reach the telescope. There is no charge for admission.