Get ready for an out-of-this-world talk at Beale Memorial Library.<\/p>\n
On Saturday, Nick Strobel, Bakersfield College astronomy instructor, will offer the presentation \u201cHistory of the William M. Thomas Planetarium.\u201d<\/p>\n
During the talk, the planetarium director will cover the facility\u2019s opening in 1962 on the college\u2019s campus in northeast Bakersfield, its major modernizations \u2014 featuring over $2 million in federal and local upgrades \u2014 and renaming in 2006 and its growth journey into a premier educational destination.<\/p>\n
Also up for discussion will be current astronomy topics and the planetarium\u2019s lineup of more than 15 shows featuring subjects such as the Earth, moon, Mars, black holes, super volcanoes, ice worlds, earthquakes, space exploration and more.<\/p>\n
At the event, the Kern County Astronomical Society will be on-site with solar telescopes, offering attendees the rare opportunity to safely view the sun. Members will also share educational materials for all ages.<\/p>\n
In addition, a library staff member and stargazing enthusiast will introduce some of the best local and regional stargazing spots.<\/p>\n
Each year, the planetarium welcomes more than 4,500 students from elementary through high school, according to a news release.<\/p>\n
Strobel earned his bachelor of science in astronomy and physics from the University of Arizona and his master\u2019s and doctorate in astronomy from the University of Washington. He has served as a full-time astronomy instructor and planetarium director at Bakersfield College since 1996. He is the author of the comprehensive online textbook \u201cAstronomy Notes\u201d and writes the biweekly astronomy column for The Bakersfield Californian.<\/p>\n
This talk will take place from 11 a.m. to noon Saturday in the Local History Room, located on the second floor of the library, 701 Truxtun Ave.<\/p>\n
The local history collection includes books, directories, maps, periodicals, newsletters and photographs covering a remarkable range of subjects related to Kern County and its history.<\/p>\n