FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 6, 2006
Media Contact: Michael Corby
904.632.3310

Pondering Pluto’s Planethood: FCCJ Astronomy Professor Mike Reynolds considers Pluto — planet or not? — and other questions of the universe in free forum Sept. 22

Are all planets created equal? What makes a planet a planet? What is dark matter, and why does it matter? Where on Earth is there a family-friendly way to learn about what goes on in the night sky and view it through a telescope, or even binoculars? These and many other questions will be addressed in a free talk by nationally known professional astronomer Mike D. Reynolds, Ph.D., at Florida Community College’s Kent Campus, (Room F-128), Sept. 22, at 7:30 p.m.

As part of Reynolds’s presentation, budding and experienced astronomers will have access to telescopes for viewing (weather permitting) provided by the members of the Northeast Florida Astronomical Society. The presentation is open to the public. Binoculars and telescopes are welcome.

Reynolds, FCCJ associate dean of Mathematics and Natural Sciences and professor of Astronomy, professional astronomer, former state teacher of the year, was a national finalist in the NASA Teacher-in-Space program. He is Executive Director Emeritus of the Chabot Space and Science Center in Oakland and author of numerous books and articles on astronomy. Reynolds was the 2002 recipient of the G. Bruce Blair medal, the “Nobel Prize” of amateur astronomy awarded to a living astronomer who has made an important contribution to amateur astronomy. His fifth book, “Binocular Stargazing,” makes astronomy and star-gazing accessible to anyone even without a telescope. Kent Campus is located at 3939 Roosevelt Blvd.

For more information call 904.381.3424.