Universe of Stories! Meteorites – Hunting and Identification – John Wallace

A Universe of Stories! Belfast Free Library’s Summer Reading Program features special events and presentations for kids, families, and teens

8/22 Jon Wallace Meteorites – Hunting and Identification

Come and have an ‘out of this world’ experience – literally! See rocks that have fallen to Earth from asteroids, Mars, and the Moon, as well as meteorites found in Maine. Find out how we search for them and details about the fireball seen over Maine in 2016. You’ll also get to start your own collection with a free meteorite specimen (while supplies last)!

Jon Wallace has a passion for geology which began with a third grade teacher’s excitement about the subject. Since then he has pursued a degree in Geology from the University of Connecticut and then other degrees in the physical sciences. He was an award-winning high school science teacher in Meriden, Connecticut for over 32 years. He is past president of the Connecticut Association of Physics Teachers and was an instructor in Wesleyan University’s Project ASTRO program. He has managed the Naugatuck Valley Community College observatory and run many astronomy classes and training sessions throughout Connecticut. He began collecting meteorites at this time to use when weather didn’t cooperate for observation sessions and found his passion for geology re-ignited. He has collected many specimens as well as thin sections for study and education. Currently, he is searching for and has found micrometeorites in various locales around Maine. Other interests include optical and radio astronomy, raising arthropods (“bugs”) and insectivorous plants. Jon has a BS in Geology from the University of Connecticut; a Master’s Degree in Environmental Education from Southern Connecticut State University and a Certificate of Advanced Study (Sixth Year) in Science (Astronomy) from Wesleyan University. He currently lives in Maine and gives free presentations in schools, libraries and other venues in the Freeport area.

Kids and Families Program Schedule
Thursdays – 3:30 — 4:30

7/11 Indigenous stories – Starr Kelly, Abbe Museum
Stories from the Wabanaki, the Indigenous peoples of Maine, and other contemporary Native American stories from Indigenous authors.

7/18 Harry Potter Universe
Hogwarts potions class, golden snitches, crafts, and challenges.

7/25 Mooncakes – Jennifer Armstrong
Musician and storyteller Jennifer Armstrong presents “Mooncakes,” a family music and story program.

8/1 “Cleo’s Egyptian Tale” Little Red Wagon Theater Company
In this unexpected quest, Cleo crosses paths with a variety of creatures who teach her important lessons about acceptance and friendship.

8/8 Constellation stories in the sky – NASA Challenger Center
Learn about star types and constellations, includes hands-on star activities

8/15 Galaxy Slime
Make your own sparkly galaxy slime! Materials provided.

8/22 Meteorites! – Jon Wallace, NASA Solar System Ambassador
See rocks that have fallen to Earth from asteroids, Mars, and the Moon, as well as meteorites found in Maine and find out how to search for them.

All programs are free and open to the public. For more information 207-338-3884