Since time immortal, the stars have captivated the hearts and minds of generations. While technology has certainly advanced since the first observations of our skies were made, this same innate curiosity remains an unbroken chain in civilizations all over the globe. When we take a look back at history, one can see time and time again how the stars have been a central mode of discovery. From their role in mysticism and astrology to the function stars play in the physical composition of our universe, it is safe to say that humans have always shown an intrinsic desire to know more about these gaseous galactic bodies and how they impact life here on Earth. If you’re an amateur astronomer hoping to make your star-gazing debut, you won’t want to miss the New Jersey State Museum’s upcoming Star Talk and Observation evening.

On Friday, October 18th, the New Jersey State Museum invites you and your family to take off to the galaxy for their upcoming Star Talk and Observation event. This intergalactic night of fun invites you to be an astronomer for the day as you discover more about what lies beyond in the cosmos. This event is completely free to attend and is welcoming to guests of all ages. The day’s festivities will begin at 7pm at the New Jersey State Museum’s Planetarium, located at 205 W State St, Trenton, NJ 08608. For guests planning on driving in, there is plenty of free parking located in the lots and streets directly adjacent to the museum.

The day’s discussion will begin with a presentation discussing the marvels of the stars above us. Following the presentation, guests are invited to the Washington Crossing observatory for an evening of observation with members of the Amateur Astronomy Association of Princeton. Cars traveling from the museum to the observatory will form a convoy before embarking on the 20 minute drive. As the event will be taking place in mid-October, guests are advised to dress according to the weather conditions. In the event that viewing conditions are not optimal, a free showing of “5000 Eyes: Mapping the Universe with DESI” will follow the talk. Doors for the discussion open at 6:15pm, so be sure to arrive on time and claim your spot for this evening of exploration.

To learn more about this and other upcoming events at the New Jersey State Museum, please visit their website, linked here: NJSM – Home. Guests can also stay up to date with the Museum’s happenings on Facebook, X, and Instagram. If you have any questions or would like to learn more regarding the upcoming discussion, please contact New Jersey State Museum staff at (609) 292-6464 for further assistance. The stars have aligned for this informative and inspiring evening of fun, so be sure to mark your calendar today!

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