Black Holes show opens at Rollins Planetarium

Beginning on January 12th, explore one of the most mysterious objects in the universe in the new Friday night public show at Rollins Planetarium, Black Holes. Sometimes pictured as planet-swallowing doomsday beasts, black holes are regions of space from which nothing—not even light—can escape. But what are black holes really like? This new show tackles this difficult and potentially confusing question using everyday examples and a healthy dose of humor. Included is a light-hearted discussion between Stella, a black hole who was once a celebrity “big star,” and her faithful Hollywood agent, Irving. Recent discoveries and images made through NASA’s Chandra X-ray Space Observatory are featured. Black Holes will be presented on the following Friday evenings: January 12 & 26; February 2, 16 & 23; and March 2.

Planetarium programs start promptly at 8:00 PM. Seating begins about 10 minutes before showtime. The planetarium is located in the Maxwell Center building on the campus of Young Harris College. There is no admission charge.

If skies are clear, the Young Harris College Observatory is open immediately after the planetarium show ends, which should be about 8:45. The observatory features a 16- inch telescope, and is located about a mile-and-a-half from campus on the grounds of the Brasstown Valley Resort. Maps are available in the planetarium lobby if needed. The observing session will include a guided tour of the constellations. According to YHC astronomy professor Steve Morgan, the ringed planet Saturn will be visible in the evening sky in early 2007, and is

always a favorite target for observing. The session will end between 9:30 and 9:45 PM. Keep in mind the observatory is open on the same dates the planetarium is open.

For recorded information about planetarium and observatory events, please call the planetarium info line at (706) 379-4312, or to get more detailed information, visit the college web site at www.yhc.edu, then click the “Rollins Planetarium” link on the left-hand side of the page.

Founded in 1886, Young Harris College is a private, core liberal arts college focused on university preparation. Historically affiliated with The United Methodist Church, a primary goal of Young Harris College is to provide a quality education for the whole person: intellectually, socially, culturally, and spiritually. To learn more aboutYoung Harris College, visit us at www.yhc.edu.