Observatory hosts telescope lens presentation Saturday

Jack C. Davis Observatory's lecture series focusing on topics in astronomy and science continues Saturday night.

Observatory volunteer Robert Anderson will present a discussion on "The Rise of the Reflector." His presentation will cover a history of lens-type telescopes and how and why they became larger and larger.

Reflector and refractor lenses have provided more viewing of the universe.

“Telescope lenses have been around since before Galileo pointed one at the sky in the 1600s,” said JCDO Director Thomas Herring. “The debate (if there really is one) is more about how reflectors and refractors accomplish different observing and imaging tasks for astronomers. Which is better depends on what you are trying to accomplish.”

The lecture begins at 6:30 p.m. during the weekly Saturday night Star Party from dusk to 11 p.m. at JCDO, which is located at 2269 Vanpatten Ave, overlooking Western Nevada College’s Carson City campus. The lecture series and Saturday night Star Parties are in honor of the late Mike Thomas, who provided free lectures for community members for many years.

To learn more about the observatory and what it offers the community, visit https://wnc.edu/observatory.