The planet Mars is once again at close approach to Earth, and the Kopernik Observatory Science Center in Vestal will be open for Mars viewing from 7 to 10 p.m. Fridays, now through March 9. Visitors will be able to see this intriguing planet up close through Kopernik’s powerful telescopes.

Viewings will only be held if skies are clear. Those interested in attending should call the observatory at 748-3685 by 5 p.m. the day they’re planning to visit to make sure it is open.

Here are some other upcoming events at Kopernik:

» Friday, March 2: “Earth Mars.” Shoshanna Cole of Cornell University will discuss the Mars Science Lab Curiosity, a roving laboratory about the size of a car that is due to arrive on Mars in August. Cole also will discuss the similarities and differences between the two planets.

» Saturday, March 3, 6 p.m.: “Marsapolooza.” Experience a close encounter with Mars as Kopernik takes participants on a field trip with Curiosity, the newest NASA spacecraft to explore Mars. Kopernik will be one of just a few centers nationwide displaying a life-size model of Curiosity. Telescopes will be open under clear skies to view the Red Planet.

» Friday, March 9: “Mars: The Red Planet.” Kopernik Observatory staff will discuss what has been learned thus far from more than 30 years’ worth of robotic missions to the planet Mars. If skies are clear, visitors will be able to view Mars, the majestic Orion Nebula and other deep-sky objects through Kopernik’s telescopes.

Admission to the programs is $5 for adults and $3 for senior citizens and students, with a family maximum of $16. Kopernik Observatory members are admitted free of charge.

The Kopernik Observatory Science Center is located at 698 Underwood Road in Vestal. For more information, visit www.kopernik.org.

Article source: http://www.pressconnects.com/article/20120223/ENT/202230337/Visit-Kopernik-catch-glimpse-Mars

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