The first Stargazing Picnic for this summer seaons will take place on Paarl Mountain this coming weekend and the focus will be on the planet, Saturn.
The Afrikaans Language Museum and Monument (ATM) presents a Stargazing Picnic this weekend on Saturday November 2, at the monument on the Paarl Mountain in Paarl.
According to a statement by the ATM, visitors will during the picnic get the chance to explore the galaxy, with the help of the Orion Observation Group (OOG) who will share their telescopes and knowledge with visitors for free.
The focus at this picnic will be on Saturn, the sixth planet from the sun and the second largest in the solar system. Thanks to its nearly 150 moons, it boasts the most natural satellites; moreover, the brightness of this planet (named after the Roman god of wealth and agriculture) easily competes with that of many stars.
The picnics is in aid of ‘Let’s Read!’, the ATM’s literacy project for children, and therefore picnic-goers are invited to donate new or second-hand children’s books.
A free guided tour will take place at 6.30pm.
Gates open at 6pm thereafter visitors can gaze into the skies from 8pm to 10.30pm. The entrance fee is R55 per adult and R15 for under-18s/pensioners.
Tickets are available at the gate, but booking at 021 863 0543/4809 or with an email to kommunikasie@taalmuseum.co.za is essential to ensure sufficient telescopes.
Visitors can bring their own picnics and drinks (no glass) or to order picnic baskets in advance at the Suikerkan on 082 216 2510 or info@diesuikerkan.co.za
There will be ample free parking at the monument and guests are reminded to bring binoculars and warm clothing.
Unfortunately, Stargazing Picnics will be cancelled if the weather doesn’t play along – call 073 853 3100 or 083 544 6510 for weather inquiries on the day itself. Pre-bought tickets can be transferred or reimbursed.
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