RAC
Lecture Series
Learn About Astronomy!
Rockland Astronomy Club is home to some of the best lectures in the Northeast region regarding Astronomy and Space. Bringing in renowned and established guests from all around, RLS is a great way to learn something new about the world of astronomy.

Upcoming Lectures

February 23, 2024

The 2024 Total Solar Eclipse:
What Causes It & How to Safely Observe

Speaker: Joe Rao, Meteorologist
instructor & guest lecturer at New York’s Hayden Planetarium, Joe writes about astronomy for Natural History magazine, the Farmer’s Almanac, & Space.com, as well as many other publications.

MEET THE SPEAKER:
PRE-LECTURE DINNER AT 6 PM >


Mark Monday, April 8th, 2024, on your calendar as “Solar Eclipse Day,” for if the weather is fair, you should have no difficulty observing a partial or even total eclipse of the sun from much of North America. In this presentation we’ll examine the mechanics of what causes eclipses as well how you can safely observe and enjoy this amazing astronomical event.

Eclipses of the Sun and Moon are dramatic natural events which have been described in records going back for centuries in many civilizations. Ancient astronomers discovered certain cycles of occurrence of eclipses, which then allowed prediction. Accurate prediction could command power and prestige.

Joe Rao serves as an instructor and guest lecturer at New York’s Hayden Planetarium. He writes about astronomy for Natural History magazine, the Farmer’s Almanac, Space.com, as well as many other publications. He also sered as an on-camera meteorologist for News 12 Westchester, New York. In 2015 he was voted “Best Local Television Personality” by the readers of Westchester Magazine. Joe was nominated for Emmy awards in 2004, 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2016 for On-Camera Achievement. Joe, his wife Renate, and their two children Joseph and Maria, reside in Putnam County, New York.   

Full 2024 RAC Events Schedule >