Space Place sponsors telescope and binocular clinic

The planets are blazing away in our clear January skies. Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars are all easy to find. A small telescope or pair of binoculars are all you need to get started on observing these and other celestial wonders.

If you have any questions about telescopes and binoculars, using them, maintaining them, shopping for them, or even if you’re simply curious and want to see a selection of telescopes on display and talk to some experienced astronomers, your chance is at hand.

From 6:30-9 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 23, UW Space Place, the Madison Astronomical Society, and Eagle Optics will host the Fifth Annual Telescope and Binocular Clinic. The public is invited to bring in telescopes and binoculars to show to others and get answers to questions. Space Place’s collection of astronomical instruments will be on display as well as those of Madison Astronomical Society volunteers, who will also be available to discuss all aspects of astronomical instruments and observing. Experts from Eagle Optics will also display instruments and answer questions.

At 7 p.m., Space Place Director Jim Lattis will discuss the suitability of various instruments for many kinds of observing and offer tips for the coming celestial attractions.

For more information, contact Lattis, (608) 263-4680, lattis@sal.wisc.edu.