The Scarborough Land Trust will host a constellation tour led by Southern Maine Astronomers on March 4th at Fuller Farm from 6 – 8PM. Participants will enjoy night sky viewing with telescopes, learn about the lore behind the constellations, how the ancients used the night sky, how light pollution affects astronomy and wildlife, and how to get started in amateur astronomy.
Sheilds states, “Large preserved tracks of land away from city lights allow us the ability to see that the winter night sky has stories to tell; satellites drift across the sky, new stars can be observed in an interstellar nursery, and we can see how the constellations were used in ancient times to decide when to plant or sail ships.”
The constellation tour will provide night sky viewing from one of SLT’s premier properties. “Conserved land provides a number of benefits, including helping to protect dark skies,” said Diane Neal, SLT board member. “Dark skies not only allow people to view the constellations, they also have proven benefits for the environment, including improved wildlife habitat.”
Tickets: $5/family group or individual. Rain date Saturday, March 5th. Participants are encouraged to dress warm and bring a comfortable folding chair. Attendees can reserve their tickets ahead of the event at https://scarboroughlandtrust.org/event/constellation-tour-with-the-southern-maine-astronomers/