By Theron Larkins
Staff Writer
Larry Berz, instructor of astronomy at the Maine School of Science and Mathematics (MSSM) and planetarium director of the Malcolm Science Center is extending an invitation to any who would like to attend an astronomy viewing during the early evening of Monday, Feb. 3rd.
Berz and MSSM students will be hosting the astronomy viewing between 6:30 and 8 p.m. in the Paradis Shop ‘N Save parking lot, in Caribou. There, they will be providing telescopes for anyone interested in coming out to witness any visible constellations or planets in the northeastern night sky.
“The focus will be mainly on Jupiter and the waxing crescent moon, but we hope to be able view Mercury, as well,” said Berz.
Berz currently resides in Caribou, but is originally from Chicago, where he began his career at the First National Bank, but as Berz puts it, “Astronomy can change your life. It took me from the 46th floor of the First National Bank in downtown Chicago and replaced my briefcase and three-piece suit with a small science center, a school of mathematics and science, and frozen fingers before dawn…”
Berz has dedicated the last 22 years to Easton’s Francis Malcolm Institute and is currently in his 12th year as an instructor of astronomy at MSSM, in Limestone, but claims he has been devoted to astronomy for over 50 years. Since 1997, he has also participated as senior instructor of the Summer Exploration programs for students of the MSSM.
“The universe from our point of view appears regular and predictable, but that’s far from the case. Change, catastrophic change awaits at a moment’s notice. Case in point: just several days ago, a star exploded in a galaxy totally unknown to the everyday pedestrian,” said Berz. “Yet, for those knowledgeable of such things, a telescope would reveal a tiny cigar-shaped cloud of galactic fuzz with the most exquisite diamond-point of light emerging amongst its nebular boundary — a supernova’s light just reached Aroostook skies after an 11 million-year journey!”
When asked why he believes it is important for people to be aware of what’s going on in our universe he was quick to respond.
“That’s easy. First, there is that sense of awe and connection that comes from witnessing what’s going on around us. Once the eye meets the eye-piece there’s an instant connection that allows us to then ask who we are, where we are and what we’re doing. There’s a kind of beauty within the cosmos that makes us aware that everything is related.”
As avid astronomers, Berz and his students would very much enjoy sharing their knowledge and expertise with neighbors, community members and followers of astronomy. Berz tells us, “if you and your family have always wanted a telescope or at least a peek at the universe, come on board, dress appropriately and live the dream!”
The event will be weather permitting and should any clouds or snow hinder the view it will likely be rescheduled for a date in March. For more information contact Berz at the science center at 488-5451.
