BRUNSWICK — Maine Cornerstones of Science and its Maine library partners announced a new program to introduce astronomy and the wonders of the night sky through hands-on telescope viewing. CoS Library Telescope Program is now in 20 public libraries throughout Maine.
Through a grant, CoS has provided quality, easy-to use telescopes that library patrons can check out, like one would a book, to take home and have their own stargazing experience with family and friends, a news release said.
CoS has partnered with Southern Maine Astronomers and Astronomical Society of Northern New England, both amateur astronomy clubs whose members have volunteered to help launch the effort through hands-on training and ongoing support of the telescope program at participating libraries.
A volunteer from SMA said in a news release, “My relationship with Cornerstones and the Library Telescope Program has been a very rewarding experience. Working with the libraries with their new, modified telescopes, has opened up new doors to help encourage others to learn the night sky and use a telescope to view some of the many wonders in our own Galaxy, the Milky Way and our Universe beyond.”
Thompson, along with other SMA volunteers, has helped to modify and maintain the telescopes; offer trainings and astronomy presentations; and host special events such as star parties with the local libraries.
The Library Telescope program is considered a gateway for citizens of Maine to learn more about astronomy and to seek out more information at their local library, planetarium or observatory or college.
The program also engages families and communities across many generations and serves to stimulate interest in science, engineering and math by encouraging selfdirected discovery and research.
“The night sky has always been a source of wonder, inspiration and awe, for as long as human beings have walked the earth. Providing free access to simple telescopes at libraries will make astronomy accessible to everyone and inspire people to want to learn more,” CoS founder and president, Dr. Lee Grodzins, said in a news release.
For more information, visit www.cornerstonesofscience.org
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