Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area to Host Astronomy Program

“Gravitational Lensing Theory and Evidence”

(ROGERS, Ark.) – Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area will host a free astronomy program on Saturday, July 13, from 8:00 pm until 11:00 p.m. at the park’s visitor center.  The Sugar Creek Astronomical Society will provide powerful telescopes for all guests to use.

The indoor program will start at 8:00 pm; outdoor viewing will begin at approximately 9:00 pm.  This month Bill Murphy will discuss "Gravitational Lensing Theory and Evidence".    Einstein’s general theory of relativity describes how mass concentrations distort the space around them.  A gravitational lens can occur when a huge amount of matter, like a cluster of galaxies, creates a gravitational field that distorts and magnifies the light from distant galaxies that are behind it but in the same line of sight…in other words, where you see something in the night sky is not really where it is…very interesting!

The outdoor program will feature viewing an 8-day old moon, Venus, and stars / constellations of the summer season.  There is no fee for this event.  You do not need to bring anything, but if you wish, you may bring a flashlight covered with a red cloth (or red balloon) and a folding chair.  If you have binoculars or a star chart, feel free to bring them.   Recommended for ages 8+.

For more information, contact the park’s visitor center at 479-789-5000.

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