The Final Friends Weekend of the Season
by Lee Phillips — June 23, 2015

The final Friends of the Planetarium weekend for 2015 was devoted to our Sun.

Astronomy Night 2015, with the National Museum of African American History and Culture under construction in the background. Credit: Lee Phillips.

On Friday, June 19, the Friends left the dome in the hands of the Arlington Public Schools, while we manned our tables at the Astronomy Night on the National Mall. We spread the word about the Arlington Planetarium among an enthusiastic crowd, until we were rained out about nine p.m.

Astronomy Night, June 19, 2015, on the National Mall. Credit: Lee Phillips.
A visit from an famous astronomer at Astronomy Night 2015. Credit: Lee Phillips.

On Saturday, after the announcement of the 2015 recipient of the David M. Brown Memorial Scholarship, we were treated to a talk by Beth Tatum of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club about how she produces her amazing solar images.

An image of the sun taken by Beth Tatum.
Beth Tatum describes solar imaging to an audience at the Arlington Planetarium. Credit: Lee Phillips.
Beth Tatum and one of her stunning solar images. Credit: Lee Phillips.

The evening ended with a screening of the impressive full-dome movie STARS: the Powerhouses of the Universe.

Sunday’s 1:30 presentation was a teaching session by Dr. Bethany Cobb Kung of George Washington University: “Life and Death: The Earth-Sun Connection”. Dr. Kung engaged small children and oldsters alike with her passionate teaching style.

Dr. Bethany Cobb Kung teaches an audience at the Arlington Planetarium about the Earth - Sun connection. Credit: Lee Phillips.
Dr. Bethany Cobb Kung. Credit: Lee Phillips.
Dr. Bethany Cobb Kung. Credit: Lee Phillips.
Dr. Bethany Cobb Kung. Credit: Lee Phillips.

The last presentation of the weekend and of our 2014–2015 season was a showing of the charming full-dome children’s movie Accidental Astronauts.

We have a full season of fun and educational weekends planned for next season. Stay tuned to this website for details!