TAAS's Mars Madness at Oak Flat - August 2003


Each summer, TAAS brings astronomy to the public with a series of public events at the Oak Flat Picnic grounds, east of Albuquerque.

Our August 2003 event coincided with the very close 2003 Mars opposition, and provided a terrific venue to show-off the Red Planet at it's best.  About 500 people came out for the views through over 25 scopes.

Right - Mars, as imaged at Oak Flat

All Photographs by Todd Bush

Left: A collogue of TAAS astronomers and scopes
Right: The public gathers as darkness approaches
Left: TAAS VP Dale Murray (lower right) oversaw the event.
Right: Ghostly trails of red light mark the way to the viewing line.
Left: It was "standing room only" as the night progressed. Over 500 spectators enjoyed the views on this clear New Mexico night.
The Milky Way passes thru Sagittarius while a spectator enjoys the view.

 

All Photographs by Todd Bush

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