Mars and Alberio to be viewed at Osten Observatory Open House

The planet Mars and the double star Alberio will be viewed at a special open house Nov. 3, 2016, from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at the Osten Observatory near Concordia University, Nebraska.

“The planet Mars will be be visible through the telescope and we will try to look at the pretty double star Alberio, a nebula left over from a dying star, a cluster of stars, and a distant galaxy,” said Dr. Robert Hermann, professor of physics.

Dr. Hermann will provide a brief explanation of each object and will answer questions from attendees. There is no set program and 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 cancelled for the night.

The observatory is located on the northeast corner of Concordia’s campus on East Hill Crest 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.