Early navigators learned to use the rising and setting stars to find their way. The stars are so far from Earth; they can be used as stationary markers to chart a voyage across the sea. This technology is not useful for space travel. When you look at star in the night sky can you tell if it is a faint nearby star or an incredibly bright star very far away? Just like on Earth, we need maps to tell us where things in space are located. What will we use to find our way in space?

The University of Kentucky Department of Physics and Astronomy is pleased to welcome the public to our astronomical observatory. Part of our program of public outreach is a presentation on an interesting topic in astronomy followed by a visit to the observatory. The Kentucky SkyTalk is held on the second Thursday of every month.  A 45 minute program on astronomy will begin at 8:00 PM in Room 155 of the Chemistry-Physics Building. After the presentation, you are invited to view the sky through our 20-inch telescope, weather permitting.

Free parking is available on the top floor of parking structure #2, next to the observatory. With the exception of paid parking, without a valid parking permit, leaving your vehicle somewhere other than next to the observatory will result in a parking citation. Please note that Rose Street is closed south of the Chem-Physics building.

All are welcome and there is no charge. Tell your neighbors. Bring your kids.

A flyer in pdf format and a link to a campus map are available here:  https://pa.as.uky.edu/observatory