Crate of Diamonds State Park encourages the public to spend an evening under the stars March 16 when the park hosts an astronomy program.
"Awesome Astronomy" will begin at 8 p.m. at the campground amphitheater, according to Waymon Cox, park interpreter.
Guest astronomer Rick Floyd will share his knowledge of the night sky, along with photos of the moon, stars and nebulae.
"Like many of us, Mr. Floyd first became interested in astronomy as a child, when he asked Santa for a telescope one year for Christmas. As he grew older and acquired a deeper love of space, he began taking pictures through his telescopes, to share captivating celestial scenes with family and friends," Cox said.
"On many nights, Mr. Floyd can still be found photographing the night sky or looking up at the stars. He participates in photographic research of deep space and regularly contributes observations to citizen science projects. Mr. Floyd enjoys sharing his love for astronomy with others and helping them learn how they can stargaze from their own backyards," he said.
"Awesome Astronomy" is free to attend. Participants should dress for the outdoors, and bring a flashlight to use after the program. Mr. Floyd will also have telescopes set up to answer questions and help others get started in the pastimes of astronomy and astrophotography.
Because this is an outdoor program, it may be cancelled in the event of rain. For more information, call Crater of Diamonds State Park at 870-285-3113.