An astronomical transit is when one atronomical body can be viewed passing in front of another astronomical body from a vantage point on Earth. We can view moons transiting Jupiter or other planets, and even watch transits of the space station across our own moon! On June 5, 2012 at sunset on the East Coast of North America the planet Venus will make its final transit across the face of the sun as seen from Earth until the year 2117. This is an exciting astronomical event that kids will love to experience, especially if they are into space and science!
You can watch by yourself following these guidelines, but NEVER LOOK AT THE SUN THROUGH A TELESCOPE OR BINOCULARS WITHOUT A SPECIAL SOLAR FILTER! You can also make a trek out to two locations on the North Shore where you and your child will have an opportunity to take a peek using professional-grade Astronomy equipment while enjoying a beautiful sunset!
Viewing Sessions:
- Explore the Pond at Bradley Palmer State Park
- Venus Transit Viewing at Halibut Point State Park
Learn about the transit of Venus and how is has helped us determine the distance that the Earth is from the Sun, and the relative distances of the other planets!
NASA Video: Transit of Venus Part One
NASA Video: Transit of Venus Part Two
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