On Monday, Oct. 6, the Southern Utah University Student Alumni Association will invite students to participate in an SUU tradition by observing Cedar City’s stars at the Ashcroft Observatory from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Located on the hilltop south of SUU on Westview Drive, the Ashcroft Observatory was constructed in the 1970s and is run by SUU physics professor Cameron Pace. The site is open every Monday night and provides the opportunity to view the galaxy for free.
Brighton Torgerson and Kylee Sutherland, two SUU students, shared their enthusiasm for the event.
“I don’t have this tradition on my Tradition Keeper, so this is why I’ve always wanted to go,” said Sutherland. “Plus, we’re going to learn about space, see the stars and see how pretty they are.”
Torgerson added, “I have never been to an observatory before, so that would be fun.”
As students get involved and participate in the SUU Tradition Keeper program, they receive rewards that can be collected in suite 103 of the Hunter Alumni Center.
T-Birds who complete five traditions receive a Carter Carillon Bell Tower sticker, while those who complete 25 traditions earn a Tradition Keeper T-shirt. By completing all 50 traditions, students will earn the Thorsome reward, which is a stole to wear during graduation.
Overall, this event will offer participants the opportunity to engage with the community while learning about astronomy. Attendees will have the chance to see what’s beyond the naked eye.
To stay in the loop with any changes in hours or updates, follow the Ashcroft Observatory’s Facebook page, as weather or other conditions may alter this schedule.
Author: Fanny Felixine
Editor: Briar Adams
Photos courtesy of SUU Alumni Association
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