As it begins to get darker a little earlier in the evening and the nights are a cooler, there's a new activity you can try with the whole family: stargazing!

The Central Arkansas Library System in a partnership with the Central Arkansas Astronomical Society is now lending telescopes to patrons. Fourteen telescopes are available to borrow at the library branches and each checkout is good for two weeks.

The telescopes are great for studying the moon and the brighter planets, such as Saturn and Jupiter, and, under proper conditions, "deep sky" objects, such as star clusters.

If you and your kids are interested in astronomy and stargazing but aren't sure where to start, the library is offering two workshops to help you out.

The first event, Stargazing 101, is Wednesday, Oct. 19 at 7 p.m. where attendees will explore the night sky in an introduction to stargazing. Learn basic telescope operation and care, plus how to easily view the moon and planets. 

The Telescope Lending Launch Party will take place Wednesday, Oct. 26 from 5-9 p.m. Attendees will learn about the new telescope program, explore a portable planetarium, and make a star wheel craft. 

Both events are taking place at Hillcrest Hall, 1501 Kavanaugh Blvd. in Little Rock. 

These beauties are at CALS BRANCHES and ready to be checked out for stargazing! 😍

A photo posted by calibrarysystem (@calibrarysystem) on