Telescope viewing at San Bernardino County Museum and Victor Valley Museum
The final two “Cosmic Nights,” of 2019 take place at San Bernardino County Museum on Saturday, Nov. 2 from 8 to 10 p.m., in partnership with the San Bernardino Valley Amateur Astronomers (SBVAA), and in the high desert at Victor Valley Museum, Saturday, Nov. 16, from 8 to 9:30 p.m. in partnership with High Desert Astronomical Society (HiDAS).
The two evenings feature telescope viewing, an opportunity to discuss astronomy with the telescope operators, and visitors are also encouraged to bring binoculars or set up their own telescopes.
On the evening of Nov. 2, Saturn and the Moon can be viewed closely together, a “conjunction” which is an astronomical event when two or more bodies share the same right ascension.
On both dates, Nov. 2 and Nov. 16, there is the possibility of meteor sightings, a result of the Northern Taurid Meteor Showers from late October through early December. Meteors are most visible closer to midnight, but once the sun sets, with patience, these meteors can be visible.
The events take place outdoors, weather permitting, and guests are advised to wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Guests are welcome to set up portable lawn chairs and blankets for extended viewing. Museum galleries will be open during the event and regular admission applies. Tickets are available in advance online by visiting http://www.sbcounty.gov/museum, or may be purchased at the door.
The San Bernardino Valley Amateur Astronomers (SBVAA) organized in 1958 to help amateur astronomers in the San Bernardino Valley area increase their knowledge and excitement in astronomy and spread that knowledge to the community.
The High Desert Astronomical Society is based at the Luz Observatory in Apple Valley.. They were formed to provide trained, volunteer astronomers to operate and maintain the Center’s astronomical equipment
The San Bernardino County Museum’s exhibits of regional, cultural and natural history and the Museum’s other exciting events and programs reflect the effort by the Board of Supervisors to achieve the Countywide Vision by celebrating arts, culture, and education in the county, creating quality of life for residents and visitors.
The San Bernardino County Museum is at 2024 Orange Tree Lane, at the California Street exit from Interstate 10 in Redlands. The museum is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cosmic Nights is included in general admission: $10 (adult), $8 (military or senior), $7 (student), and $5 (child aged 5 to 12). Children under five and Museum Association members are admitted free. Parking is free. For more information, visit www.sbcounty.gov/museum. The museum is accessible to persons with disabilities.
The Victor Valley Museum is a branch of the San Bernardino County Museum located at 11873 Apple Valley Road in Apple Valley. The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cosmic Nights is included in general admission: $5 (adult), $4 (senior or military), and $2.50 (student. EBT cardholders are $1. Children under 5 and San Bernardino County Museum Association members are free. Parking is free. For more information, visit www.sbcounty.gov/museum. The museum is accessible to persons with disabilities.