Rainwater Observatory to Host Free Public Program Titled ‘MARS: The Red Planet!’

FRENCH CAMP, Miss. (Press Release) — Rainwater Observatory in French Camp will be offering a free public program for this season called “MARS: The Red Planet!” This new presentation will be given on July 11 starting at 7:00 p.m. by Edwin Faughn, director of Rainwater Observatory.

“MARS: The Red Planet!” explores one of the most mystifying and fascinating planets in the solar system. It has captivated people for centuries and is filled with mythology, science fiction, history and a wealth of scientific discovery. This new program is visually intensive and will take participants on a journey through this strange and alluring world and reveal some of the most breathtaking imagery and astounding discoveries ever recorded in human history.

Edwin is also an artist and lecturer specializing in space sciences and has presented hundreds of programs to diverse audiences including but not limited to universities, museums, schools, churches, civic groups, scouts and various other organizations. His original artwork has been featured in and on the covers of international space science magazines, exhibitions and planetarium productions. A few of his credits include Scientific American, Federal Express World Headquarters and the world premiere of Titanic: The Exhibition. He also served nearly 20 years as the art director for the Sharpe Planetarium of the Pink Palace Family of Museums in Memphis, Tennessee. His work is now featured on the main KEPLER website of NASA’s Ames Research Center.

After the presentation, weather permitting, an observing session will be held using some of Rainwater’s collection of powerful telescopes. The planetarium can be used if the outdoor observing is clouded out. Rainwater Observatory and Planetarium is located one mile east of the beautiful Natchez Trace Parkway off MS Highway 413 near the village of French Camp in Mississippi. Come early and enjoy Steak Night at the Council House Café, another support ministry of French Camp Academy.

For more information on these and other programs visit Rainwater Observatory at www.rainwaterobservatory.org, call 662-547-7283 or send an email to info@rainwaterobservatory.org.