The Mystery of Beta Lyrae
Beta Lyrae is the second brightest star in the summer constellation of Lyra, the Harp, best known to Amature Astronomers for the bright star Vega, and the Ring Nebula. In 1784 it was discovered to be a variable star. But modern science has discovered that this is no ordinary variable, but two stars orbiting so closely together that they are no longer even round.
Come join us, as Dr. Fred Chromey, Professor of Astronomy at Vassar College, presents "The Mystery of Beta Lyrae".
Indoor Meetings
The Mid-Hudson Astronomical Association holds it's indoor meetings on the 3rd Tuesday of every month. They are all free and open to the public.
The business portion of the meeting starts at 7:30pm and covers reports from the various officers, and organization / updates of upcoming events. The main lecture starts at 8:00pm. It is designed to run about an hour, targetting an audience with a high school level of science background.
After the meeting some of the members gather at the College Diner on RT 299. It is an informal social gathering, all are welcome to come. During the warmer months we may run an observing session between the meeting and gathering at the diner.
Coykendall Science Building
The Coykendall Science Building houses the main Auditorium as well as the Planetarium.
Directions:
- From Poughkeepsie, cross the MH Bridge, and take 9W North to 299 West.
- Once in New Paltz, turn left on Rt. 32 South.
- Take the 4th right (Mohonk Ave. Ext.) into the campus.
- Park at or near the end of the road.
- From here the Science Building is South,
- (left and beyond the end of the road on the North-South Walkway).
- The Auditorium is on the Left when you enter the building.
- The Planetarium is across the hall from the Auditorium
Current Weather and Sky Conditions:
Coykendall Science Building
SUNY New Paltz
76 South Manheim
New Paltz, NY
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