Astronomy Series Continues at Fern Forest Nature Center

DATE: June 3, 2016

MEDIA CONTACT: Michael Mills

Parks and Recreation Division

PHONE: 954-357-8115

WHAT: BROWARD COUNTY, FL - Who hasn't stared into the night sky and wondered about those shimmering lights far, far away? There may be an overabundance of ambient nighttime light in Broward County, but that doesn't mean you can't go stargazing. It just means that exploring the heavens is best done with the aid of telescopes. The South Florida Amateur Astronomers Association (SFAAA) opens the Fox Observatory at Markham Park in Sunrise every Saturday evening, weather permitting, for free stargazing from dusk to midnight.

The SFAAA also hosts the quarterly program An Evening With the Stars at Fern Forest Nature Center in Coconut Creek, where speakers cover basic telescope techniques and general astronomy information. The second of this year's four programs will start at 7:30PM on Friday, June 17th, and the program is free and for all ages.

The South Florida Amateur Astronomers Association was founded in 1965. Regular meetings of this nonprofit organization are held at the Fox Observatory at Markham Park & Target Range (16001 W State Rd. 84, Sunrise) at 7:30PM on the first Thursday of the month. Memberships start at $20. For additional information, call 954-384-0442.

WHERE: Fern Forest Nature Center

201 Lyons Rd. South, Coconut Creek 33063

954-357-5198

WHEN: Friday, June 17th, 7:30-9PM

WHO: For all ages.

HOW: Free. For registration information and to check viewing conditions, please call the nature center on the day of the event.

For further information, call the nature center at 954-357-5198. Fern Forest is accessible via Broward County Transit Routes #31 and #42.

Recreation. Preservation. Education.

About the Parks and Recreation Division

Founded in February 1956 and accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies, Broward County Parks and Recreation Division manages almost 6,500 acres, encompassing nearly 50 regional parks and nature centers, neighborhood parks, and natural areas at various stages of development. Facilities include water parks, campgrounds, a target range, a stadium, a skate park, an observatory, mountain bike trails, an educational farm with stables, and a velodrome and other sports facilities. Hours and fees vary by location. For more information, visit Broward.org/Parks.

Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations in order to participate in programs, services, and activities must contact the Special Populations Section at 954-357-8170 or TTY 954-537-2844 at least five (5) business days prior to the scheduled meeting or event.