Chabot Space & Science Center Braces For Astronomical Triple Play

OAKLAND, Calif., May 15, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Astronomers and volunteers at Chabot Space & Science Center are preparing for expected crowds over the next couple of weeks when three major astronomical events take place, beginning this weekend.  On the afternoon of Sunday, May 20, viewers on the West Coast will have a particularly clear view of the Annular Solar Eclipse. This is a rare sight in which the rim of the Sun becomes a brilliant ring completely encircling the silhouette of the Moon. Chabot will be open past normal closing for a viewing party on the observatory deck from 5pm – 8pm with the maximum eclipse at 6:32pm.  In addition to hands-on solar projects and DIY pin-hole cameras, experienced astronomers will be on deck to guide visitors through safe viewing. Tickets are $5 after 5pm online or call (510) 336-7373.

On Monday, June 4, Chabot's Observatory Deck will be open from 2am-5am for a Lunar Eclipse. Visitors can engage in conversation with Chabot's astronomers and knowledgeable volunteers as they witness the Moon's passing behind the Earth. Suggested donation of $3.

On Tuesday, June 5, the Transit of Venus will take place between 3pm to 10pm. This event is free to the public with General Admission. This is the last time Venus will pass in front of the Sun until 2117.  The event includes hands-on activities, live broadcasts from NASA, floor demonstrations and viewing through Chabot's special solar scopes and sun spotters. Transit will be most visible from the area from 3:06pm to 9:50pm.

According to Chabot's CEO, Alexander Zwissler, "this series of celestial events is the equivalent of the baseball triple play…rare and very exciting, and in the case of the Venus Transit, the last show of our lifetimes."

For advance tickets and admission, visitors should go online at www.Chabotspace.org or call the box office at (510) 336-7373.

Chabot Space & Science Center, a Smithsonian affiliate, and Bay Area Certified Green Business, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit interactive science center whose mission is to inspire and educate students of all ages about Planet Earth and the Universe. Founded in 1883, the Center is located at 10000 Skyline Blvd. just off Highway 13 in the Oakland hills. For more information, visit www.chabotspace.org.

SOURCE Chabot Space & Science Center