Springfield, IL (WAND) – Friday night star parties are returning to the University of Illinois Springfield this month.

Star parties are hosted by UIS Associate Professor of Astronomy and Physics John Martin at the UIS Campus Observatory.

During the events, the observatory’s telescopes are used to look at a variety of objects, including the moon, Jupiter, the Orion Nebula and star clusters.

The parties are planned for February 27 and March 27. They are free and open to the public, with guests let in on a first-come, first-served basis.

The events may be cancelled due to cloudy weather. Attendees can call 217-206-8342 at 7 p.m. on the night of the party to check if the event is suitable for viewing.