On the evening of Wednesday, October 1, Acton Conservation Trust and AB STEAM, two local non-profit organizations, partnered to host “Astronomy in the Park,” their second annual star party held at NARA Park. The area near the upper parking lot was filled with telescopes brought by 10 volunteer astronomers from the Amateur Telescope Makers of Boston (ATMoB), who generously donate their time, equipment, and knowledge for star parties all over Massachusetts. Over 150 people registered to attend the event.
As the sun set in a cloudless autumn sky about 6:30 p.m., many of the telescopes pointed to the moon, which was easily visible in the eastern sky. It was in a gorgeous waxing gibbous phase and families were treated to a clear view of the craters and Mare Tranquillitatis (the Sea of Tranquility).
In addition to the ATMoB telescopes, one of the AB STEAM volunteers (this author) showcased the Celestron NexStar 4SE telescope from the “Library of Things” at the Acton Memorial Library. Last year, AB STEAM donated funds to help pay for the telescope that has been available to borrow from the library since this past summer.
Though a few clouds appeared as the night progressed, participants were able to view the rings of Saturn, Neptune, the moon, and Albireo (a double star). Also, many of the astronomers and attendees caught sight of a large, bright meteor streaking across the sky at about 7:15 p.m. Viewers all over southern New England reported seeing this fireball event.
Dawn Peterson is an Acton resident and a recovering astronomer. She is a volunteer with AB STEAM and currently serves on the board.
