Astronomy buffs all over the world are witnessing a once-in-a-lifetime event that interested local residents also can gaze at. For about two more weeks, the planet Mars will have its closest encounter with Earth — a mere 34.6 million miles — than at any other time in recorded history. Visit U.Va.’s McCormick Observatory during its open house nights and see Mars in vivid detail through the observatory’s 118-year-old telescope. The next chance to see Mars up close and personal? The year 2887, so you don’t want to miss this chance.

Weather permitting, McCormick Observatory will be open for Mars observing Sept. 5 11:45 p.m. to 2 a.m. and Sept. 12, 11 p.m.-1 a.m. The open houses will include lectures, movies, displays and observing.

If the sky is cloudy, the observatory will be closed. Weather updates will be available beginning at 10 p.m. on scheduled Mars Mania nights by calling 924-7238. For general information, call 924-7494.

For astronomy information, see the department’s Web site at http://www.astro.virginia.edu