Stargazing in the Manzanos - 6 events

The Albuquerque Astronomical Society and the Sandia Ranger District will once again co-host their popular series of FREE public star parties in the Manzano Mountains.

The dates for 2008 are: May 31, June 28, July 26, August 23, September 6, and October 4. All events are on Saturday evenings. Mark your calendars!

The dark skies of the East Mountains and the telescopes of the TAAS astronomers together provide great views of planets, as well as more elusive deep-sky objects such as galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters. All events are weather permitting. Observing begins at sunset. Picnic facilities are available for those who would like to come early, and adjacent parking is available. Alcoholic beverages and pets are not allowed in the telescope viewing area.

The location of all star parties is the Oak Flat Picnic Area. To get there, take I-40 East to the Tijeras exit. Go south on NM Highway 337 nine miles and look for a sign to turn left for Oak Flat. Once off the highway, follow the signs to Oak Flat and Juniper Loop, for about a mile. For information, visit www.taas.org or call 505-254-TAAS.