Star party to be held at Legacy

Mountain Home members of the Boise Astronomical Society will hold a special "star party" at Legacy Park both the afternoon and evening of April 4.

The event is part of the group's observance of the International Year of Astronomy taking place in 2009. The year marks the 400th anniversary of Galileo's first astronomical observations with a telescope.

Saturday's star party will take place on the soccer field area of the park, and will begin at 4 p.m. with society members setting up telescopes that will allow the public to view the sun.

Later that evening, Saturn and the moon will be featured.

"Bring your telescope and your curiosity, or just your curiosity if you don't have a telescope," said event organizer Garry Swatzel.

Members of the BAS will help people set up their new telescopes, explain basic observational techniques, and in general "try and get them interested in astronomy," Swatzel said, adding that expensive telescopes aren't required to enjoy the hobby.

He noted if enough interest is shown it may be possible to organize a local starwatch group chapter.

For more information contact Swatzel at 863-8762, or Garrybk@yahoo.com.