Starry Nights

Starry Nights, a special evening of science will be held at the Hattiesburg Zoo on Saturday, February 10th from 6:00 – 8:30 p.m. This event is focused toward youth ages 5 – 12 and their parents or guardians. “It is very special to be in the Zoo at night because there is a serene level of quiet to enjoy, knowing that more than 100 species of animal are nearby,” said Jeremy Cumpton, Director of Conservation, Education and Wildlife.

The Hattiesburg Zoo is partnering with USM’s School of Mathematics & Natural Sciences for Starry Nights 2024. Dr. Christopher Sirola, Associate Professor of Astronomy and Physics and Dr. Michael Vera, Associate Professor of Physics will be featured throughout the evening. Dr. Sirola will give Star Talks at 6:15 and 7:15 p.m. and participants will learn how to use telescopes along with learning what they are seeing when they peer through the scope lens. “Starry Nights at the Zoo is intended to bring astronomy and physics to the public in a family-friendly environment,” said Dr. Sirola. “Our faculty and students in Physics and Astronomy will provide presentations regarding the night sky, chances for participants to observe objects like Jupiter and the North Star through telescopes, and witness demonstrations of the physics of light, including lasers, and much more.”

The Asbury Discovery Center will be Science Experiment Central for laser and Liquid Nitrogen experiments throughout the evening. “We are really looking forward to learning about physics through these fun and interactive learning opportunities,” said Cumpton. “We are appreciative of our partners from USM, and know this will prove to be a night full of wonderment and fun, interactive learning.”

A Solar Learning Station will also be set up to explain the solar system in inches, and there will be fun craft and educational activities to engage guests of all ages. Guests will be surprised by animal encounters, and the carousel and train will be running throughout the evening. Limited food and beverage options will be available for purchase during Starry Nights.

Tickets for this special event are $10 purchased online in advance, and $12 at the gate. Annual passes do not apply for this event. Tickets available at https://tickets.hattiesburgzoo.com/event/starry-nights-

“If you are interested in the sun, the stars or science in general, this is a night at the Hattiesburg Zoo that you will not want to miss,” said Cumpton.