Astronomy Night

## Details

Astronomy Night: New Flower Moon, Star and Planet Observation
Join us for a night of star and planet gazing! The Flower Moon will station New on Friday, April 17, 2026 at 7:52 AM EDT. This event will be held the night of the New Moon on Thursday, April 16, at 8:00 PM EDT. Since the moon will not be illuminated, it will be easier to observe stars and planets.

The New Flower Moon will be the fourth new moon in 2026, and the first new moon of Spring, rising against the constellation Aries. This moon cycle is named for the abundance of flowers that bloom in May. Other names for the Flower Moon include the Planting Moon and the Milk Moon, reflecting the seasonal changes and agricultural practices of the time.

This is a great chance to meet new friends in their 20s & 30s, enjoy Robinson Preserve at night, and learn and connect with the sky, stars, and everything celestial!
Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or just looking for a relaxing way to spend a Thursday evening with some friends, this no pressure, no stress event will hopefully increase your awareness and knowledge of the night sky!

*** UPDATE***
We will be in for a special treat this evening!!!!!:


April 16: Comet R3 PanSTARRS Visible
A glowing cosmic traveller graces our skies! Comet R3 PanSTARRS is making its appearance — binoculars or a small telescope will reveal its beautiful tail.


Visibility: Visible from both hemispheres — dark skies away from city lights recommended.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1504013554705574&set=pb.100052908322353.-2207520000
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## Event Details:
📅 Date: Thursday, April 16th, 2026
⏰ Time: Meet at 8:00 PM | Stay until whenever. (The moon stations new the following morning on April 17th, at 7:53 AM EDT)
📍 Meeting Point: Parking lot at Robinson Preserve Expansion, 10299 9th Ave NW, Bradenton, FL 34209
📞 Contact: Allen at 703.447.1969

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## What to Expect:
🌟 New friendships with like-minded astronomy lovers.
🌟 No pressure - no stress event.
🌟 Educational / non-formal talk and discussion about celestial phenomena, the science of astronomy, and astrological story telling.
🌟 View visible planets Venus, Jupiter, and / or Uranus through my Celestron Nexstar 8SE Telescope https://astrobackyard.com/celestron-nexstar-8se/
🌟 Fresh air, natural-outdoor setting, and peaceful vibes.

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## What will be provided:

• Celestron Nexstar 8SE Telescope
• Water
• Light Snacks / drinks
• Bug spray
• Astronomical and / or Astrological discussions
• Opportunity to see several planets up close and personal!

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## Inclement Weather:

• Astronomy and stargazing is dependent upon clear skies. If weather forecasting predicts rain or overcast skies, this event may get cancelled or postponed. If inclement weather is in the forecast, I will wait as long as possible to cancel the event. *This might be a game-time decision.* If it is raining, there will be no event, if it is partly cloudy, we might still meet. I will post weather updates here the day of, and then an hour or two before the event.