Physics Department, University of West Georgia

The University of West Georgia Observatory	Dr. Bobby Powell, Director (top) and Mr. Robert Moore, Jr., Assistant Director (bottom)
Equipped with his five senses, man explores the universe around him and calls the adventure Science. -- Edwin Hubble

The University of West Georgia Observatory features a Cassegrain reflecting telescope having a mirror whose diameter is fourteen inches. It is mounted in an observing room whose dome has a diameter of sixteen feet. This system has been used since October, 1979. A variety of portable telescopes and accessories are stored at the Observatory.

Using this window to the rest of the universe, West Georgia's students and people from the surrounding area have observed the Sun, Moon, planets, nebulas, star clusters, and galaxies. The facilities are available for observation of solar and lunar eclipses. During 1985-1986, about 3000 people saw the Halley's comet using telescopes at the Observatory.

In addition to its usage to support observations for astronomy classes and student projects, a program of public observations are held four to six times per quarter. Special observations by science classes, science clubs, and civic or religious groups may be arranged by contacting the Director of the Observatory, Dr. Bob Powell.

Public observations are held if the sky is clear. The current dates and times of public observations are given in the table to the right.

Groups or organizations may request special observations conducted by Bob Powell by calling him at (678) 839-4095, writing him at the Department of Physics, University of West Georgia, Carrollton, GA 30118, or sending e-mail to bpowell@westga.edu.

MARS HOAX

      Many people are receiving e-mail messages about a close approach of Mars in late August, 2006 as they did in the summer, 2005. That information is incorrect. The message generally describes the situation of August 2003, when Mars and the Earth were as close as they had been in thousands of years. That situation will not occur again for thousands of years.
      Both Mars and the Earth orbit the Sun in elliptical orbits. They are relatively close to each other when Mars is at its closest point to the Sun. This occurs every 2.1 years.
      In August, 2006, Mars is more distant than the Sun. Compared to 2003, it is further away, dimmer, and smaller when viewed with a telescope.
      You are invited to come to the West Georgia Observatory to enjoy other celestial objects.

2007-2008 Public Observations If the sky is clear, the West Georgia Observatory will be open to the public at the following times:
August 20 September 17 October 29 November 26 December 10 January 14 February 25 March 10 April 21 May 5	9:00-10:00 pm 9:00-10:00 pm 8:00-9:00 pm 8:00-9:00 pm 7:00-8:00 pm 8:00-9:00 pm 7:00-8:00 pm 8:00-9:00 pm 9:00-10:00 pm 9:00-10:00 pm