VSU's Observatory opens for Venus Viewing

VALDOSTA - Valdosta State University’s observatory will open for a special viewing of planets, Venus and Saturn, from 9-10:30 p.m. Saturday, June 30.

According to Kenneth Rumstay, the planet Venus, Earth’s neighbor on the sunward side, is currently ablaze and slowly approaching the ringed planet Saturn. The two worlds will come into conjunction on the morning of July 1 when they will be separated by just two-thirds of a degree.

VSU astronomers will open the observatory so that members of the public will be able to view the event Saturday evening at no charge. The observatory is located atop the roof of Nevins Hall, which can be reached by entering the building at the southeast corner and utilizing the stairs or elevator to the fourth floor (roof level).

Contact the VSU Department of Physics, Astronomy and Geosciences at (229) 333-5752 for more information.