The key differences between Mars and Venus will be part of Darren Williams’ topic of discussion on Thursday, April 19, when Open House Night in Astronomy returns to Penn State Behrend. Williams, a professor of astronomy and astrophysics at the college, will explain what is known about each world and what remains uncertain.
ERIE, Pa. — The classic book “Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus” may have a fun, catchy title, but it’s much more than that. It also pays homage to the fact that the two planets that border Earth could not be more different.
Those key differences will be part of Darren Williams’ topic of discussion on Thursday, April 19, when Open House Night in Astronomy returns to Penn State Behrend. Williams, a professor of astronomy and astrophysics at the college, will explain what is known about each world and what remains uncertain. He also will offer a possible solution to Mars’ water problem, which has puzzled the astronomical community for years.
His presentation, “A Tale of Two Worlds: The Story of Mars and Venus,” will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the auditorium of the Otto Behrend Science Building. It is free and open to the public.
The lecture will be followed by a 15-minute Q&A session hosted by Williams. Astronomical observing also will be offered if weather permits.
Free programs on the night sky will be held in the Yahn Planetarium before Williams’ talk, beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Open House Nights in Astronomy are an outreach program of the School of Science at Penn State Behrend. These scientific presentations are intended for ages 8 and up. For additional information, contact the school at 814-898-6105.
Steve Orbanek
Marketing Communications Coordinator, Penn State Erie, The Behrend College
