Reach for the stars
Last Saturday night in Kahala Park, I wandered over the craters and mountains of the moon, then walked 30 feet for a close-up of the glow from the Ring Nebula. Mars was near the washrooms, not far from a pair of stars that shone like red and blue diamonds.
The occasion was a once-a-month star party and my excuse for coming was to bring my son. Most of those gazing through the telescopes were kids, which is a shame. Growing up should not stop you from marveling at the universe.
Our hosts, members of the Hawaiian Astronomical Society, generously shared their telescopes and expertise with everyone who came. They know the sky like the rest of us know the layout of the local mall. Guess which place has more sparkle and magic?
There are star parties every month. The next ones are Saturday, Nov. 29, at both Kahala Park and Waikele Community Park. They start at dusk and run about three hours. For directions and details, check out the society's Web site at www.hawastsoc.org/index.htm.
Steven Petranik
spetranik@starbulletin.com
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