Astronomy on the Mall began in 2010, so this is the eighth year of the event. Don Lubowich, astronomy outreach coordinator at Hofstra University, founded and organized the event, and over the years has accumulated many sponsors. This year, there were over 30 science organizations, higher institutions of learning, and astronomy clubs/organizations helping at the event.
The event went from 6-11 p.m., but after 9 p.m. we left since the sun set and the telescopes became the main attraction. However, I had a lot of fun talking with all the different people who attended, children and adults alike, as I explained the makeup of the sun, early universe, and humans using marbles to demonstrate different elements like hydrogen, helium, and carbon.
On Saturday (today), I walked with my roommate to the Target over in Arlington to: 1) get some cleaning supplies for the apartment and 2) explore the area. Here's some photos from our excursion.