The public is invited to view the moon and Jupiter through Missouri University of Science and Technology’s 16-inch telescope on three evenings this fall.

Weather permitting, the Missouri S&T Observatory will open its doors at 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 15, for the first Visitors’ Night of the semester. Jupiter, the fifth planet from the sun and the largest in the solar system will be visible. The moon will also be visible.

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

The observatory will offer two additional opportunities to view the skies this fall, at 7 p.m. Friday Nov. 12, and at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 10. 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 573-341-4369 or email jschmitt@mst.edu.