The William D. McDowell Observatory in  DeKorte Park begins a new month of programming Monday night with free public programs at 7, 8 and 9 p.m.

   Each evening two major objects in the night sky will be viewed plus one or two other celestial objects or events depending on the observing conditions.

    Pictured at left is the observatory's state-of-the-art telescope with a 20-inch mirror,  housed beneath a retractable dome.

  The telescope, one of the largest in the area, is equipped with cameras to record the stars and planets. Special filters block light pollution.

   The observatory is one of the best bargains around. See for yourself!

  For detailed information and the complete January schedule, click here.