Annual Astronomy Night Returns to Jones Beach Community

Annual Music and Astronomy Under the Stars was huge success.

After a pausing a few years due to the pandemic, the annual MAUS program has returned to Jones Beach Boardwalk at the Bandshell bringing astronomy to the community. On Friday, August 16th, thousands of beach- and concert-goers were treated to incredible views of a beautiful waxing gibbous moon phase.

Sixteen AOSNY volunteer members arrived early evening and welcomed the Jones Beach visitors with six telescopes trained on the moon and captured the “oohhs & aahhs” from the tiny ones to the grandparents and everyone in between.

Guests also were treated to glimpses of the fiery sun through a solar telescope as we warmed up the crowd waiting for the moon to rise. Educational information about astronomy and light pollution were on hand at our welcome table for all those wanting to learn more.

Special thanks to Don Lubowich, Hofstra University, and the Sierra Club of Long Island that helped bring back this great night of astronomy to the community. Look for our next AOSNY public community event soon: International Observe the Moon Night at Jones Beach Energy and Nature Center on September 14, 2024 when observers all around planet earth simultaneously marvel at our only satellite, The Moon.

The MAUS program has been at several free summer concerts this year including those at John Burns park in Massapequa for the Journey tribute band Any Way You Want It, the incredible cover band Wonderous Stories band at Bar Beach in North Hempstead, and Steelin’ in the Years Steely Dan tribute band on August 21st at Anthony Casamento Park in Bay Shore.