The Florida Tech Ortega Observatory, a mobile astronomy experience established when the university and Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex joined forces to bring the majesty of the universe to more people, will have its debut Friday at the Kennedy Under the Stars event.
In July 2024, Florida Tech President John Nicklow and KSCVC Chief Operating Officer Therrin Protze signed an agreement to create new and expand existing educational opportunities on space sciences for researchers, students and the public.
On Friday, Luis Quiroga-Nuñez, assistant professor of astrophysics and director of the Ortega Observatory, and a team of two dozen faculty and undergraduate and graduate students will set up near the Atlantis exhibit at the visitor complex. They will offer ten optical telescopes of various strengths – with primary mirrors ranging from 6 to 11 inches – to the expected 1,500 guests.
“This is the first event of many highlighting our partnership,” Quiroga-Nuñez said. “We are excited to participate in Kennedy Under the Stars and look forward to sharing our passion for astronomy with guests of all ages.”
The event from 6:30-10 p.m. is an opportunity to experience Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex after hours, what organizers are calling “a galactic glow party.” There will be multiple illuminated experiences, a video DJ showing 2000s-era music videos in line with the Y2K theme, and astronaut meet-and-greets with Curt Brown and Sandy Magnus.
