The Discovery Center at Ridgefield, in conjunction with the New Pond Farm Observatory, 101 Marchant Road, West Redding, is hosting a public astronomy program Saturday, Dec. 7, starting at 5 a.m.
The group will look for Comet ISON and there guided tour of the late fall constellations, and good views of Jupiter and Mars.
Comet ISON created a buzz when it was discovered more than two years ago as it was relatively large compared to most comets. Some press reports have called it the “Comet of the Century,” meaning it might be very bright and have an impressive long tail. However, comets can be unpredictable and have disappointed on occasion. The central ice core of ISON is warming and melting as the comet is getting closer to the sun, which has provided some early morning viewing in the past few weeks.
Participants should dress warmly and bring a flashlight for the walk from the parking area to the observatory, and binoculars. The program is $4 members, maximum of $16 per family, and $6/$24 non members. Registration is required at www.ridgefielddiscovery.org or 203-438-1063.