BIG PINE KEY, Fla. (AP) - As many as 600 professional and amateur astronomers are peering through telescopes in the Florida Keys.

The 28th annual Winter Star Party continues through Sunday at a Girl Scout camp in the Lower Keys.

Organizers say the event's primary draw for astronomers is the large number of southern constellations, comets and stars visible from the Keys. The region's southern location, clear night skies and relative absence of city lights contribute to prime viewing conditions.

Other attractions include lectures and programs by noted astronomers and guest speakers.

The event is coordinated by the Southern Cross Astronomical Society.

---- Online Winter Star Party:  (Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)