Astronomy Facts: Saturn is known to have more than 100,000 ringlets. The Milky Way galaxy is 100,000 light years across. The the temperature of the middle part of the sun's chromosphere is more than 100,000 degrees celsius and the Night Sky Network has now reached more than 100,000 people!
Created just over one year ago, the NASA Night Sky Network was designed to support amateur astronomy clubs in engaging the students and the public in learning about what is in the night sky. Night Sky Network partners are organized groups of amateurs scattered throughout the country who share a common goal of sharing the hobby and science of astronomy with the public through outreach.
To participate in the Network, clubs must first apply, stating their reasons for joining. As the Network passed the 100,000 mark, the Network expanded it reach again adding new clubs, the latest one from Georgia:
"We are a small club that really works hard to bring astronomy to the public," noted the Flint River Astronomy Club, Griffin Georgia in its application. "Last year we were awarded the Sky and Telescope Astronomy Day award for the club to do the most for its size. We recently have also held numerous public observings for the Boy and Girl Scouts and a Home Schooling Association and have several more planned for this year."
But it's the veteran clubs that have attained this "100,000 people reached" milestone, such as:
- Texas Astronomical Society of Dallas whose members reached over 5,000 people in 64 events
- Astronomical Society of Harrisburg, PA reaching over 4,500 people in 56 events
- Kansas Astronomical Observers reaching over 1,000 people in 34 events including rural areas of Kansas.
These and the 175+ other clubs in the Night Sky Network deserve a hearty "Congratulations!"
Equipped with resources provided by the Night Sky Network program, these amateur groups are volunteering their time at events throughout the country and sharing their knowledge to make a difference in the lives of children, under-served groups and the general public.
In one year, the Network, NASA, and its partners at the Astronomical Society of the Pacific and the Astronomical League have enabled amateurs to help at least 100,000 people see astronomy and the world in a new light.
To find a Night Sky Network partner near you, go to our club locator page