Locals and visitors will during the month of February get to know and study Jupiter during the Afrikaans Language Museum and Monument’s (ATM’s) stargazing picnic on Paarl Mountain on Saturday February 3.
According to the Taalmonument, visitors will on the night get to explore the galaxy with the aid of the Orion Observation Group (OOG) whose members will share their knowledge and telescopes for free with stargazers.
The night on the stargazing picnic on February 3, will focus on Jupiter, the largest planet in the solar system, and branded as the gas giant with beautiful, visible moons.
Guests coming to the picnics can partake in a free guided tour of the monument at 6.30pm. There are outdoor games and playgrounds for the children.
Visitors are welcome to bring their own picnics and drinks (no glass) or to order picnic baskets in advance at the Suikerkan via 082 216 2510 or 082 856 1871 or info@diesuikerkan.co.za
This bistro will also sell refreshments during the event. Visitors are encouraged to remember binoculars and warm clothing. There will be ample secure parking available at the Taalmonument for free.
The picnic series is in aid of ‘Let’s Read!’, the ATM’s literacy project for children, and therefore picnic-goers are invited to donate new or second-hand children’s books.
The event starts at 6pm and visitors can stare into the skies from 8pm to 10.30pm. Entrance fee is R50 for adults and R15 for those under 18.
Tickets are available at Computicket or the gate, but booking at 021 863 0543/4809 or kommunikasie@taalmuseum.co.za is essential to ensure sufficient telescopes are made available on the night.
Unfortunately, stargazing picnics will be cancelled if the weather doesn’t play along and those intending to attend it can call 073 853 3100 or 083 544 6510 for weather inquiries on the day itself.
The last full moon picnic will be on 22 March 2024.
