Special Mars Observation Event

[Jonathan Sabin]

Many of you took advantage of this past weekend's Saturn Observing event and were treated to some spectacular views of the ringed planet.

We'll be offering yet another special summer event at Robinson Preserve (10299 9th Avenue NW) in Bradenton on Friday, July 20th from 10:00 p.m. until midnight.

This special Mars Observing event is being held to take advantage of the BEST views of the Red Planet since 2003! It's a don't-miss event!

As with all "Sidewalk Astronomy" events, it's FREE and weather-permitting.

In case of rain or clouds on the 20th, this event will be held the following night, Saturday, July 21st. (Also from 10:00 p.m. until midnight.)

We are thrilled to partner with the Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department, as well as Robinson Preserve for this very special event.

Please note that this will take place in parking lot just off the brand-new 9th Avenue NW entrance to the Preserve --and NOT at the Preserve's "main entrance" at the corner of 99th Street West and 17th Avenue!

[Ed McDonough]

This event was PROMINENTLY mentioned at a sold out Stelliferous show Wednesday evening at the Bishop Planetarium.

[Ed McDonough]

Well, we had more clouds than clear but that's Florida this time of year. It was always going to be a tricky event to get in.

That said, what a tremendous turnout at a spectacular venue. I kept thinking of that last scene from "Field of Dreams" with all the car headlights pulling into to baseball field.

Too bad we can't use the venue more often than for just our scheduled public events. Maybe we should beg Aedan from Manatee County for more access - LOL!!!