CCCC Release

A once-in-a-lifetime comet, the moon and several constellations and planets will be visible at Cloud County Community College’s star party Saturday, October 19, from 7:30-9:30 p.m., at the Earl Bane Observatory on the Concordia campus.

Comet Tsuchinshan–ATLAS, discovered in 2023, is expected to be visible for the next few weeks, and the Observatory’s telescope will be focused on it. The comet is visible in the western horizon during twilight.

Two days before the star party will be the Hunter’s Moon, the first full moon after the fall harvest. This year’s Hunter’s Moon will also be a supermoon. In addition to viewing the moon, attendees will also see Saturn and Venus. The evening will also include looks at Draco the Dragon, Algol the Demon Star, Cetus the Sea Monster, and Serpens the Serpent.

In the event of unfavorable weather, a movie about comets will be shown in the Observatory Theater.

Those planning to attend the star party are asked park in lot one at the college. The Observatory is located on the southwest corner of campus, near the Thunder Heights dormitory.

Contact Dennis Smith at the college, 785.243.1435, ext. 223, with questions.