April's Astronomy Night at Town Creek Indian Mound will introduce you to some constellations you may not know about.

On Saturday, April 18, participants will learn about the constellations Hydra and Monoceros.

Hydra, the Water Snake, is the largest and longest constellation in the sky. Despite its length, it contains only one bright star, Alphard, which is known as the heart of the sea serpent.

Monoceros, the Unicorn, is a modern constellation named after the imaginary creature that looks like a horse with a long cone on its head.

The Milky Way flows through the constellation.

April's astronomy programming will begin at 8 p.m. in the ceremonial center. Participants with telescopes are asked to arrive before sunset to set up their equipment. Site telescopes will be on hand to share with visitors and view the various deep sky objects.

Those interested in attending are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs.

This event is free and open to the public. Registration is required. Contact the site by e-mail at towncreek@ncdcr.gov or by calling (910) 439-6802 to register or for more information on this event.

The mission of Town Creek Indian Mound is to interpret the history of the American Indians who once lived here.

The visitor center features interpretive exhibits, as well as audiovisual displays. A national historic landmark, Town Creek Indian Mound State Historic Site is North Carolina's only state historic site dedicated to American Indian heritage. Tour groups are welcome and encouraged.

The site is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. It is closed to the public Mondays and most major holidays.

The historic site is located on Town Creek Mound Road approximately five miles east of Mt. Gilead, in southern Montgomery County between N.C. 73 and N.C. 731.

For more information on Town Creek, visit www.towncreek. nchistoricsites.org.)