texas

skywatchers report


Welcome to the University of Texas Skywatchers' Report for November 3rd through the 9th.

The full moon for the month of November is on the night of the 8th. This full moon is called the Frost Moon.

Venus can now be glimpsed low in the west-southwest shortly after sunset. Mars is high in the south at about 8 p.m. this week. Saturn rises at about 9:30 p.m. and Jupiter follows 5 hours later at 2 a.m.

During this month's full moon, observers will be treated to a total lunar eclipse. The whole eclipse will be visible in Europe and Africa, as well as the eastern part of North America. Here in Austin the moon will already be partially eclipsed when it rises at around 5:30 p.m. Totality runs from about 7:05 to 7:30 p.m. with the eclipse ending a little after 9 p.m. A lunar eclipse occurs when the earth falls directly between the sun and moon, causing the moon to pass through the earth's shadow.

For more skywatching tips for the week check out stardate.org

The telescope at Robert Lee Moore Hall is open to the public on Wednesday nights starting at 7:00 p.m. RLM is located on the southeast corner of Dean Keeton and Speedway. Take the elevators 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 and Saturdays are open for the general public, both currently running from 8 to 10 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. Call 232-4265 for up-to-date cancellation information.

Note that star party times change throughout the year. Please call this recording to check times before planning a visit to the telescopes.

Thank you for calling the University of Texas Skywatchers' Report.