Observatory Director and Professor Dr. Tom Herring
The Jack C. Davis Observatory on the Western Nevada College Campus is celebrating its 20th anniversary this month.
Members of the Rotary Club of Carson City will hear about the Observatory’s role at the college and in the community at the club’s next meeting. Observatory Director and Professor Dr. Tom Herring will share the history as well as his thoughts on the future of the facility. The public is invited to join the meeting which takes place Tuesday, May 23, at noon, in the Brewery Arts Center’s Grand Ballroom.
The facility is currently used for formal educational opportunities, scientific research and outreach activities. Named for the founding president of Western Nevada College, the observatory allows visitors an up-close experience with the moon, stars and galaxies.
“The observatory is a great place for the scientifically curious to gather for educational opportunities, both formal and informal,” Herring said. “Through viewing the universe, we actually help bring people together. We all share the night sky and it has infinite wonders to explore.”
Herring invites the community to come view the night sky through the observatory “eyes”, the powerful telescopes. “We have star parties every weekend. Any Saturday night all you need to do is show up when it's getting dark and enjoy science with us. We'll have something to do or talk about even when it's cloudy. And it’s free.”
Those interested in attending the meeting should email carsoncitynvrotary@gmail.com to save a place. To learn more about the Rotary Club of Carson City visit www.carsonrotary.org.