The Rainwater Observatory had a great time of fun, fellowship, observing and amazing presentations by its guest speakers during the Midsouth Star Gaze and Astronomy Conference April 11-14!
Many people came in earlier in the week and enjoyed some beautiful dark skies despite the weather worsening over the weekend!
Special thanks to Dave Teske, David Halupowski and a number of others for their assistance cleaning and helping take care of details during the event! Also special thanks also to Mitzi Watkins in Guest Services and Jamie Senyard, Hannah Obrien and others from our Development Department!
Rainwater Observatory in French Camp Mississippi will be offering a free public program for this season called "EXPLORING SPRING STARS!" This presentation will be given on Friday, May 11, 2018, starting at 7:00 p.m. by teacher and astronomer, David Teske. This fascinating, educational and entertaining presentation explores the beauty, science and mythology of the spring stars and constellations. The program is generously sponsored by 4-County Electric!
Dave Teske has won various teaching awards including teacher of the year from schools at the Air Force Association and has been recognized by NASA. He is a retired science teacher who is a lifelong amateur astronomer. He has been doing public outreach at Rainwater Observatory since 1990. He also does outreach at local schools and nature centers. Prior to this time, he worked at planetariums and nature centers in northern Minnesota. He is an avid observer of the sun and moon, as well as whatever else he can see in the skies. He contributes his solar and lunar observations to the American Association of Variable Star Observers and the American Lunar and Planetary Observers. He is married and has four dogs!
After the presentation, weather permitting, an observing session will be held using some of Rainwater's collection of powerful telescopes. The planetarium can be used if the outdoor observing is clouded out. Rainwater Observatory and Planetarium is located one mile east of the Natchez Trace Parkway off MS Highway 413 near the village of French Camp in Mississippi. Come early and enjoy Steak Night at the Council House Café, another support ministry of French Camp Academy.
Rainwater Observatory and Planetarium is an educational ministry of French Camp Academy. This unique facility offers a window into the splendor of the heavens that few around the country or even the world can offer. We provide a variety of programs designed for different groups and organizations including universities, schools, seniors, youth, scouting, civic, churches and other faith based organizations.
