Patrons of Winslow and Waterville public libraries are invited to Colby College’s Collins Observatory for a night of stargazing at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 15. This family-friendly program will begin with a brief introduction from Elizabeth McGrath, Clare Boothe Luce Assistant Professor of Astronomy.

Weather permitting, participants will view a number of interesting astronomical objects using the automated 12-inch Collins telescope as well as some smaller portable telescopes. Celestial objects visible this night include the moon, the Orion Nebula, the Pleiades, the Crab Nebula and the Andromeda Galaxy.

There is a heated classroom adjacent to the dome where hot cocoa and cookies will be served between viewings. Dress warmly, as the observatory dome is not heated.

Call the observatory at 859-5878 for weather updates: if it is overcast or precipitating, the event will be canceled and re-scheduled. If you are outside and can see stars, then you can expect the event to be on. There will be a message on the observatory voicemail that afternoon (by 3 p.m.) with news of whether the event is on as scheduled or canceled. Patrons can also call Winslow Public Library at 872-1978 for up-to-date information about the event, and details about parking, finding the observatory etc. or call Waterville Public Library at 872-5433. The libraries will introduce their newly acquired Cornerstones of Science telescopes at the star party.