The public is invited to view the moon and Jupiter through Missouri S&T’s 16-inch telescope on Friday, Sept. 25. Weather permitting, the Observatory will open its doors at 8 p.m.

Jupiter is the fifth planet from the Sun and the largest in our Solar System.

Visitors’ Night at the Observatory is free of charge and no reservations are required. Children are welcome to attend but must be accompanied by an adult.

2009 is the International Year of Astronomy, a commemoration of Galileo’s discovery of the telescope 400 years ago and other astronomical milestones.

The observatory will offer another chance to view the moon and Jupiter this fall at 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23. Viewing is subject to weather conditions.

Built in 1973, the Missouri S&T Observatory is adjacent to the university’s Stonehenge replica on Highway 63 North, north of V.H. McNutt Hall and west of St. Patrick’s Lane.

For more information contact Dr. John L. Schmitt, associate professor of physics at Missouri S&T, at 341-4369 or email jschmitt@mst.edu.