This One is For Us Maine Space Nerds

Have you ever looked up at the night sky and wished that you could zoom in on the stars just as you can on a photo on your smartphone? Silly, right? Well, thanks to The University of Maine, now you can ... sort of.

Friday Night Public Observing at The University of Maine

How exciting is this?! The University of Maine has opened the doors every Friday at 8pm (weather permitting) for the public to come see the night sky through the Historic Clark Telescope! The best part, there is absolutely zero fee. Just bring your wonder and love for the great beyond!

What is The Historic Clark Telescope at The University of Maine?

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It was designed and created in 1895. It was since been modified and improved, but the design scope remains the same for well over 100 years. It has been utilized for so many important roles in space exploration, and the following might be the most exciting.

In the 1960s, a team of scientists and artists used the Clark Telescope to create detailed maps of the moon in support of America’s manned voyages to the moon. Apollo astronauts studied these maps and some even used the Clark Telescope for part of their training to go to the moon. - medium.com

 

Here Are the Details in Visiting University of Maine and The Clark Telescope

Observing begins at 8pm following the observatory's Friday public shows. You can take advantage of viewing the cosmos through the lens of the historic Clark Telescope until May 2nd of 2025. Visitors are encouraged to dress warmly. The telescope is located at the University of Maine's Versant Astronomy Center.

To read more on the Alvan Clark telescope and its history, click here.