Palmetto Christian Academy of Greenwood students will be seeing some stars up close.

No, not Hollywood celebrities or pro sports athletes. Real stars. The kind in the sky. And some planets, too.

In support of science studies this year, PCAG will have its first Astronomy Night on Thursday, March 25.

The school will use its telescopes for a special nighttime viewing. All Earth Science students are required to attend the event, which will be from 6 p.m. until 10:45 p.m. at the school on

W. Deadfall Road in Greenwood.

The focus of the observations will be learning to locate some major constellations and to view the planets Venus, Saturn and Jupiter. Students will also observe the moon in one of its phases.

Prior to the observations, students will watch the movie Apollo 13 (with any inappropriate language removed) on the big screen in teacher Ron Bradford's room to support Chapter 7 (Moon) studies.

The cost of this event will be $6 cash, which will cover the cost of all-you-can-eat pizza, drinks and chips. Call Mr. Bradford if you would like to be a parent chaperone.

Students should bring money with them as soon as possible (Wednesday, March 24 at the latest) so Mr. Bradford can shop after school in preparation for this star-studded event.

Because this kind of learning opportunity cannot be duplicated during regular school hours, attendance is mandatory. If students are unable to attend the event, they should see

Mr. Bradford in advance so alternative plans can be made.

Mr. Bradford is well known in the Greenwood area as one of most engaging and hands-on private school science teachers. Whether its his famous school-top egg drops, rocket blast-offs, special classroom lab-type experiments or his rite-of-passage field trips, he's always using inspirational methods to teach students critical thinking skills in a fun and interesting way.

Students are encouraged to bring their movie snacks, but are asked to not bring any kind of electronic games or equipment, iPods, CDs, etc. This is a night truly devoted to nature and God's beautiful creations in the sky.

Schedule of events and what to bring:

6:00--7:00 p.m.: Gym fun time and dinner

To observe outside: Jacket, gloves (optional), binoculars for the moon; flashlight

For movie: (optional): sleeping bag, bean bag, cot, inflatable mattress, sofa, long or short lawn chair, futons, pillows, etc. -- whatever will make you comfortable and the envy of all your classmates. Call Mr. Bradford or e-mail him at the school if you would like to attend. His contact information can be found on this Web site's faculty page.