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Space Places in Rhode Island
Despite being the smallest state in the U.S., Rhode Island sure does have some fine institutions where amateur astronomers rule and space enthusiasts drool. Most of you are familiar with Seagrave Observatory on Peeptoad Road in North Scituate, home of Skyscrapers, Inc., but did you know there are two other major observatories open to the public in Little Rhody: Ladd Observatory on the east side of Providence and Frosty Drew Observatory in Ninigret Park in Charlestown.
In addition, how many of you are aware that the Roger Williams Park Museum in Providence houses the Cormack Planetarium? And don't forget the Planetary Data Center at Brown University where researchers can access just about every image ever acquired by NASA spacecraft. I realize Rhode Islanders don't like to travel far to get anywhere, but all these space places are within a one-hour drive of each and every Rhode Island resident. And with the exception of the Cormack Planetarium which charges a very modest fee, you can't find a less expensive way for a family to spend an afternoon or evening. And in the process, you might even learn something about the universe we live in.
: By Francine JacksonNestled quietly on the corner of Upper College Road and Engineering Row is a unique little building resembling a silo stepped on by the Jolly Green Giant. Many students who pass by this building have no idea they are looking at one of the most modern planetariums in the area. The University of Rhode Island Planetarium, a part of the campus for decades, has within its doors the ability to travel through the solar system, and beyond.
: By Dave HuestisSeveral years ago I wrote a series of articles highlighting “space places” in Rhode Island. I neglected one important astronomical facility located down on Rhode Island’s south coast. Natives of the smallest state don’t like to drive far for any event. We often joke that someone from the northern environs of our state needs to bring a passport, lunch, and an overnight bag to make a journey to Newport or Westerly. That state of mind even has a name, it’s called being provincial.
: By Dave HuestisLocated in the Roger Williams Park Museum of Natural History, the Cormack Planetarium is open to the public every weekend and during school vacation weeks.
