Students who were in town last May were treated to a dazzling display of Aurora Borealis – better known as the Northern Lights. The Whitworth Ferguson Plantetarium has the next best thing for those who were not so lucky.
Every Saturday at seven from now until October fifth, everyone is welcome to join Dr. Fox (Jen) Connelly – the Planetarium’s Associate Director – in marveling at this amazing natural light show.
The show begins with a 25 minute movie, Aurora: Lights of Wonder, a slide show of photos of the Auroras from citizens around Buffalo, and ends with a lesson from Dr. Connelly on how to take the best photos of the Auroras and a demonstration of the star globe.
Dr. Connelly explains that right now is the best time to look for Auroras as we are currently at Solar Maximum – meaning the sun’s activity is at its highest and its magnetic field flips from north to south. This change causes tension to be released which can create the Auroral displays we witnessed last May.
As for how to get good photos of those beautiful auroras, Dr. Connelly gives specific tips such as getting away from city lights, choosing a good composition and using a tripod for stabilization amongst others. However, Dr. Connelly tells visitors the most important thing is to “never waste celestial events trying to get a good picture” and to truly experience the moment.
The Planetarium, which has been open three years this October, had its star globe installed during the COVID-19 pandemic by engineers from Germany. Then, adding in Dr. Connelly and her contagious enthusiasm, the Planetarium is a must see location on campus.
Keep an eye out on the Planetarium during midterm and finals, as Dr. Connelly plans on hosting meditation sessions inside. Time and date to be determined.