NEW ALBANY, IN, (May 31, 2012) – Indiana University Southeast is hosting a public viewing of the Transit of Venus as the planet crosses the sun next week.

The Transit of Venus is a rare astrological phenomenon that occurs every 243 years, with pairs of transits eight years apart. During the transit, the planet appears as a dark spot in front of the sun. The previous transit occurred in June 2004 and the next pair will not be seen until December 2117 and December 2125.

IU Southeast Professor of Geosciences Gerald Ruth will host the viewing from 6:15 – 8 p.m., Tuesday, June 5, at the IU Southeast Observatory off Grant Line Road.

The viewing is free and parking is available. For more information, contact the School of Natural Sciences at (812) 941-2284.