The cosmos, and our investigation of it through the night sky, is central to humanities’ understanding of its place in the universe. This curiosity yields mathematical developments, and it is foundational to many philosophical and spiritual beliefs. It inspires creative endeavors in every artistic medium. To pursue and encourage this wonder, Hamden Public Library is presenting Astronomy Night, a free astronomy and space-themed festival for all-ages, November 19, 2024 from 3 PM through 7:45 PM. This celebration is at Miller Memorial Library, 2901 Dixwell Ave, Hamden, CT 06518 and in the Hamden Town Center Park. The festival features stargazing with the Astronomical Society of New Haven and Shoreline Astronomical Society, a presentation by Physicist John Staunton, an all-ages exoplanet activity, and other space-themed activities for children.

The festivities begin at 3 PM with Space Mission Miller, a space-themed scavenger hunt in the Miller Memorial Library’s Children’s Department, and self-directed space crafts. These activities are meant for school-aged and preschool children, however, any child or child-at-heart is welcome to join in the cosmic adventures. 

At 4 PM, participants may attend Make Your Own Exoplanet in the Friends Room at Miller Memorial Library. This activity is open to all-ages. Astronomer, citizen scientist advocate, and Hamden Public Library staff member, Henry Long expands attendees’ curiosity by teaching about: what is an exoplanet, how does matter come together to form an exoplanet, what would a planet be like with the materials that we have laid before us? Yes, everyone makes own exoplanets with library provided materials! 

Next at 5:30 PM, John Staunton, Columbia University PhD candidate in Physics, deepens festival goers’ knowledge with a galactic presentation exploring why interstellar dust is important to understand, and what we so far know is in interstellar dust.

At 6:15 PM a scaled Solar System walk from the Miller library to the Observing location will be guided by Laurie Averill, volunteer Solar System Ambassador for NASA’s JPL.

Then at 6:30 PM, with the early darkening skies of November, the Astronomical Society of New Haven and the Shoreline Astronomical Society generously guide attendees through a stargazing event with telescopes in Hamden’s Town Center Park. Depending on sky conditions Jupiter, Saturn, Neptune, and Uranus, will all be visible in addition to numerous major constellations.

Incorporate more awe in your life by joining in this free festive exploration of our universe, the scientific ideas surrounding it, and by allowing yourself to gaze upon the wonders of the night sky. Please contact the library at 203-287-2680 if you have any questions. Funding for this free program was generously donated by the Friends of the Hamden Public Library. 

based on press release by Henry Long