Clouds May Dampen Friday’s Star Party

Depending on the weather, the Westmont Observatory, which opens its doors to the public every third Friday of the month, may be available Friday, Jan. 20, beginning at 6:30 p.m. and lasting several hours. However, rain showers are expected that evening, which would force the cancellation of the viewing. The viewing at Westmont occurs in conjunction with the Santa Barbara Astronomical Unit, whose members bring their own telescopes to Westmont for public use.

The Keck Telescope, a 24-inch F/8 Cassegrain reflecting instrument with Ritchey-Chretien optics, is housed in the observatory between Russell Carr Field and the track and field/soccer complex. Free parking is available near the baseball field.