Welcome to the University of Texas Skywatchers' Report for June 3rd through the 9th
The moon passed the third quarter phase on the 2nd and is heading towards new on the 10th. This new moon will also be part of a solar eclipse, which will be visible here in Austin. For us, the eclipse will start at 7:28 p.m. on Monday the 10th and will reach a maximum eclipse of 65% just a few minutes before sunset. Be sure to get a good view of the western horizon to catch a setting eclipsed sun. Be sure to follow all safety measures when observing the sun. The safest method of viewing an eclipse is a projection method.
Jupiter and Venus, the two brightest planets in our sky will reach their closest point to one another on June 3rd. They have been gradually moving closer together over the past couple of weeks as Jupiter has been sinking towards conjunction with the sun and Venus has been rising towards its greatest elongation from the sun.
The telescope at Robert Lee Moore hall is open to the public on Wednesday nights at 9 p.m. The building is located on the southeast corner of Dean Keeton (formerly 26th street) and Speedway. Take the elevator to the 17th floor and follow the signs to the telescope.
The telescope at Painter hall is open on Fridays for UT students, faculty and staff from 9:00 to 10:00 p.m. and Saturdays are open to the general public from 9:00 to 11:00 p.m. Painter Hall is located on 24th street about half way between Speedway and Guadalupe.
All events are free and open to all ages and no reservations are required. Observing events are weather permitting.
Please note that star party times change throughout the year. Please call this recording to check times before planning a visit to the telescopes.
