ERIE, Pa. — If you look at a photograph of the moon’s surface, you’ll notice craters. On Earth, they’re far less visible. The reason for that has to do with both weather patterns and erosion.
However, if one knows where to look, they can be found. Scott McKenzie can help.
McKenzie, an assistant professor of geology and paleontology director at Mercyhurst University, will discuss both local craters and meteorites on Thursday, Feb. 1, when Open House Nights in Astronomy returns to Penn State Erie, The Behrend College. He will detail how these formations can be found. Several local meteorite samples also will be on display.
McKenzie’s presentation, “Finding Meteorites and Craters in the Erie Region,” will begin at 7:30 p.m. in room 101 of the Otto Behrend Science Building. It is free and open to the public.
The lecture will be followed by a 15-minute Q&A session hosted by McKenzie. Astronomical observing will also be offered if weather permits.
Free programs on the night sky will be held in the Yahn Planetarium before McKenzie’s talk, beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Open House Nights in Astronomy are an outreach program of the School of Science at Penn State Behrend. These nontechnical presentations are intended for ages 8 and up; for additional information, contact the school at 814-898-6105.