Astronomy August at NLR Public Library System
2023-08-23 04:01:42 by Susie Kirk
As August approaches, the North Little Rock Public Library System is excited to present a stellar lineup of events that will take you on an astronomical journey! From meteor showers to solar science, we have something for everyone, regardless of age. So mark your calendars and join us at Laman Library for these out-of-this-world programming experiences:
- Perseid Meteor Shower:
On the evening of August 12 and early morning hours of August 13, the Perseid Meteor Shower will be at its peak. Stop by the Children’s Department on August 11 at Laman Library to pick up a meteor shower packet! Inside you will find activities and all kinds of information including when, where, and how to view this spectacular meteor shower.
- Little Dippers:
We are kicking off the month with a brand-new program at Laman Library- Little Dippers on August 3 at 10 AM , August 8 at 1 PM, and August 17 at 4 PM! Little Dippers is a monthly exploration of the cosmos for budding astronomers ages 12 and under. In August, we will delve into solar science. Join us as we learn about the upcoming solar eclipses; we’ll discover how they work and why they are so rare! After a couple hands on demonstrations, we will use sunoculars to safely view the sun! Future Little Dippers topics include NASA’s Artemis missions, tardigrades, and the icy surface of Europa.
- Solar Science Workshops:
On October 14, 2023, Arkansas will be in the path of the annular (or partial) eclipse, during which Arkansas can expect roughly 70% coverage. On April 8, 2024 we will be in the direct path of a total solar eclipse. Arkansas will not experience a total solar eclipse like the one next year until August of 2045!
People of all ages are invited to join us August 5 (from 10 AM -12 PM) and August 7 (from 5-6:15 PM) at Laman Library to learn more about these historical eclipses. After discussing the science of eclipses, everyone will get a chance to view the sun and solar flares using a sunspotter. Attendees will also receive a pair of solar eclipse glasses to keep! We’ll talk about how and when to wear them to get the most out of your eclipse viewing experience!
- Solar Science at Argenta
Join us at Argenta as we explore the fascinating world of upcoming solar eclipses on Wednesday, August 16 at 3 PM. Delve into the mechanics behind these celestial events and uncover the reasons for their rarity. Engage in interactive demonstrations that bring the science to life, followed by the safe use of sunoculars to observe the sun. This session is tailored for individuals aged 18 and under. Don’t miss out on this exciting journey of discovery!
We are also planning a variety of STEAM programs for all ages, so be sure to stay tuned for more exciting events! If you have any questions or need further information, please don’t hesitate to contact Lauren Bradley at Lauren.Bradley@lamanlibrary.org or call 501-758-1720.
Let’s make this August an unforgettable month of exploration and discovery as we gaze at the wonders of the cosmos together at the North Little Rock Public Library System! Find these programs and more at our Upcoming Events calendar!
(Updated July 28 to add specific times and program links.)