Mercury Crosses the Sun

Astronomy returns to the library on Wednesday, Nov. 8 but it won't be at night! The tiny planet Mercury will cross the brilliant face of our Sun in a trip that will last from about 2:12 EST through local sunset. This event, called a "transit of Mercury" won't be seen again for another 10 years! Not only is it interesting to view another world in silhouette but the Sun itself is worth looking at. If viewing conditions are right, we should be able to make out some details of the outer layers of old Sol and, if we're really lucky, view some Sun spots! See it with your own eyes through a solar-safe telescope in the Reading Garden. This program requires partly-cloudy to clear skies!

Note: If it's too cloudy or if you can't visit the library, watch a live webcast of the event from Kitt Peak, Arizona.