Cal State Fullerton Tip Sheet California State University, Fullerton
Public Affairs
800 N. State College Blvd. Fullerton, CA 92632
657-278-2414 Fax 657-278-5226
www.fullerton.edu/news/

 

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February 3, 2004 :: No 143

Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary Offers Views of Saturn, Other Planets

What: Orange County residents will have a chance to see the planet Saturn at its best viewing opportunity in 30 years, with the help of Cal State Fullerton astronomers and their telescopes in the rustic surroundings of the Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary.
   
When: Friday, Feb. 13, 7 – 10 p.m.
   
Who: University astronomers Jeff Cady, Bob Gill and Stephen Karl will be on hand to
answer questions and assist with the telescopes that will be available for viewing.
   
Where: The Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary is located near the end of Modjeska Canyon Road in south Orange County. Take Santiago Canyon Road to Modjeska Canyon Road and proceed to the sanctuary, which is near the fire station. Visitors are advised to call (714) 649-2760 to learn of weather conditions that could affect viewing.
   
Cost: The event is open to the public free of charge.
   
Background: The sixth planet from the sun, Saturn is named for the Roman God of Agriculture. The rings of Saturn were first observed by Galileo in 1610. The planet has 18 known moons, including one named Titan, the name of the Cal State Fullerton mascot. The planet also has seven rings. In addition to Saturn, visitors also will be able to view Venus and Mars, with Jupiter rising over the sanctuary hill at 9 p.m., along with a myriad of stars in the winter sky. Visitors are advised to dress warmly. The Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary has been operated by the university as an educational facility for more than three decades.
   
Media Contacts:

Karon Cornell, Tucker director, at 657-278-3896 or kcornell@fullerton.edu

Jeff Cady, CSUF staff physicist, at 657-278-3246 or jcady@fullerton.edu

Dave Reid, Public Affairs, at 657-278-4855 or dreid@fullerton.edu