Public Invited to View ‘Transit of Venus’

Astronomical Event Occurs Every 120 Years

What:

The “Transit of Venus,” an astronomical event that happens every 120 years, can be viewed June 5 at the Fullerton Arboretum. The free event is organized by faculty and staff in the Cal State Fullerton’s College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics.

Different types of telescopes will be set up for public viewing or visitors can bring their own. The event also features lectures about the transit and the greenhouse effect at 4 p.m. and 5 p.m., respectively, and astronomy-related activities and physics demonstrations.

When:

Tuesday, June 5 3-6 p.m.

Where:

Cal State Fullerton
Fullerton Arboretum, Orchard Lawn
1900 Associated Road, Fullerton, 92831

Who:

Stephen Karl of the Biological Science Department; Joshua Smith, assistant professor of physics; and Shovit Bhari, also of the Physics Department, are the event organizers.

Why:

On the afternoon of June 5, Venus will begin to pass in front of the sun. This “Transit of Venus” will take place until just after sunset, said Stephen Karl, staff microscopist in the Biological Science Department.

“It will not happen again in our lifetime,” Karl said. “If you look to the West after the sun sets each evening, you will see a bright star, which is actually the planet Venus.”

Every night for the next week, Venus will appear lower on the horizon as it begins to catch up with the setting sun, Karl explained.

Additional:

Viewing of the transit is dependent on clear skies, but event and activities will be held, even if cloudy weather conditions prevail.

More Info:

657-278-2565 or visit the Physics website

Parking:

Free parking at Fullerton Arboretum lot; for information and directions, visit the Arboretum website. Parking also available on campus for $8 for a daily permit. Details are available online

Media Contacts:

Stephen Karl, Biological Science, 657-278-2565

Debra Cano Ramos, 657-278-4027; 657-278-2414

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