Autumnal Equinox Sky-Watching at UMass Amherst Sunwheel, Sept. 22

The UMass Amherst Department of Astronomy invites the public to witness sunrise (6:30AM) and/or sunset (6PM) among the standing stones of the UMass Amherst Sunwheel on the autumnal equinox, September 22. (The exact minute of the autumnal equinox will be 9:54PM EDT.)  Observers standing at the center of the Sunwheel will see the sun rise and set over stones placed to mark the equinoxes. If the skies are clear, telescopes will be available for observations of the sun and other objects. 

Sunwheel is located south of McGuirk Alumni Stadium, just off Rocky Hill Road about one-quarter mile west of University Drive (map). Be prepared for wet footing and bring mosquito repellent. Heavy rain cancels the event. Donations will be welcome for supporting additional site work and future events.