Bring your curiosity and a chair! The Monroe County Dark Sky Astronomy Club will host a meeting and Star Party on Saturday, September 19, at the back patio of The Maverick Steakhouse in downtown Monroeville. The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m., with sunset at 6:49 p.m. New members are welcome, whether they are experienced stargazers or just beginning to explore the night sky.

Guest speaker Jim Harstad, president of the Auburn Astronomical Society, will share his lifelong enthusiasm for astronomy. His interest began in his early teens when he received his first telescope. Through self-directed learning and countless hours of backyard observing, that curiosity became a passion he now enjoys sharing with others.

Harstad's astronomy connections span the country. He previously served as vice president of the Minnesota Astronomical Society and has held memberships with the Arrowhead, Las Vegas, and Colorado Springs astronomical societies. He particularly enjoys observing directly through his telescope, often sketching what he sees through the eyepiece of his 8-inch Orion Dobsonian. Helping people of all ages explore the stars is one of his favorite parts of public observation events.

Following the meeting, multiple telescopes will be set up for viewing, with everyone hoping for clear skies. Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

Guests should bring their own chairs, as the patio is currently undergoing a makeover. Those wishing to enjoy dinner at The Maverick Steakhouse should make reservations. There will be no food or beverage service on the patio during the event. Outside food and drinks are not permitted, and no alcohol will be allowed on the patio.

Make an afternoon and evening of it by coming downtown early to explore Monroeville's Constellation Trail. This scavenger hunt-style activity invites participants to find all 16 constellation panels and earn a challenge coin. Star Guide trail booklets are available at the Monroeville Police Department, Monroe County Museum, Monroe County Public Library, and Monroeville Main Street office. Plan ahead to pick up a booklet during the participating location's operating hours and make early reservations at The Maverick Steakhouse for dinner.

The trail and Astronomy Club are part of Monroeville Main Street's Science Discovery on Main Street programming, connecting community curiosity with opportunities to learn and explore together.

There may even be a surprise guest joining the September 19 gathering. Follow Monroeville Main Street on Facebook and Instagram for updates.

Come downtown, discover the constellations along the trail