Starts at Sunset on the Providence Pedestrian Bridge
by Francine Jackson
Starts at Sunset (WaterFire), Providence
September 12, 2024
By Francine Jackson
Once again, the City of Providence had one of its celebrations on its new pedestrian bridge on September 12, and Skyscrapers was invited to be a part of it. Jim Hendrickson and Francine Jackson brought their portable telescopes, and Fred Sammartino came with his binoculars. Although the event began in daylight, we were able to show the Moon, with a promise that Saturn would be rising while we were on the bridge. We also aimed our equipment at other features around the neighborhood, such as the power plant, the new medical building, and other structures. Also, all around us the river began to glow, as it was a WaterFire evening.
Suddenly, between two buildings, the planet Venus peeked out of the clouds, allowing the public to see our closest planetary neighbor for several minutes.
In addition, several people came over to ask about the possibility of buying a telescope for themselves, and asking for referrals. One couple, especially, had come from Boston, and, with suggestions from Jim, we were certain they would purchase their first scope the next day.
A major problem in that region is the light pollution, especially evident in the southeast, which for us meant that Saturn was never visible; however, we were glad Venus had made a visit, giving us one planet for the evening. Despite that, the promoters were glad we had been able to come, and assured us we would be called to return at their next fest.
