It is something that has been around since the beginning of time, yet common knowledge of it is sparse.

It is the sky.

The Ames Area Amateur Astronomers are working to solve that with their monthly public star parties.

If you enjoy astronomy, or if you just like looking at the stars, join the Ames Area Amateur Astronomers for “Harvesting Stars,” Saturday, Oct. 12 at 8 p.m. at the Story County Conservation Center.

This is the last public star party of the year. It is free and open to the public and everyone who goes will get a star wheel designed by AAAA member Jack Troeger.

Most star wheels distort the constellations when they flatten the dome of the sky to put it on a flat plane, this one does not.

Troeger will point out some easily visible stars and constellations. He will also tell some of his favorite myths and legends.

Participants should bring binoculars, if possible, and dress for the weather.

The Ames Area Amateur Astronomers Club was founded in 1979 by Jack Troeger.

He is an earth science teacher at Ames High School where he teaches astronomy and geology.

“Astronomy is one of the most universal interests,” Troeger said. “I’ve never met anyone not interested at least a little.”

For Troeger, sharing what he knows is one of the greatest joys in his life.

He founded the Ames Area Amateur Astronomers to find others with the same interests.

“Back in 1979 I didn’t know anybody who liked the same things I did,” he said. “So I ran an ad in the paper.”

The AAAA is now working to raise the funds to build a new observatory to house their telescope.

For more information about the star parties contact Dave Oesper at 232-8705 or the Story County Conservation Center at 232-2516.