After several rainy public star parties, our July star party had clear skies and was well attended! I counted 12-15 telescopes, and approximately 200 people joined us throughout the evening. Since sunset was not until after 8:36 pm, many HAL members focused on the Moon as their first target as we waited for the skies to darken. Some members arrived early enough to observe the Sun in hydrogen-alpha. Other targets include Mars, Caldwell 20 (The North American Nebula), M57 (The Ring Nebula), and other summer-time objects. The observatory, as usual, was packed with people throughout the night. Arjun was present with the solar system display table. The activities tent also included a solar sail activity for families. This public star party featured crew members from MPT (Maryland Public Television), who interviewed several members of HAL about the club and its role in the community.

Thank you to everyone who joined us tonight!

-Krystal

Link to photos: https://photos.app.goo.gl/Weuq1L9MVsYevuhE6