Greer's OC

This is as close to Mars as you are ever going to get. OC Parks is offering a free Astronomy and Stargazing event Saturday at our favorite Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center, an architectural gem sheltered from the street at the Upper Newport Bay. Scientists from Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL),creators of America’s first satellite and the first robotic craft to the moon, are giving an update on their latest missions and explorations. And they’re bringing a slightly smaller scale replica of the actual Mars Rover for a close as you’re going to get sense of the Mars mission.

You can stargaze through telescopes, learn from OC astronomers during a star presentation, and view unique Mars imagery in the exhibit hall. It’s a perfect event for the whole family (children’s activities planned throughout the evening). Viewing 7:30 p.m., lecture at 8:15 p.m. Upper Newport Bay. 2301 University Drive, Newport Beach. 949.923.2275.

Fun Mud Run at Irvine Lake Sunday!

Sign up and run in the Irvine Lake Mud Run this Sunday. The race starts at 9 a.m.! The 5K Mud Run includes plenty of mud pits, challenging obstacles, and enough showers to clean up afterward. The event also features a Kid’s Mud Puddles race area, eco fair, concert, food, and beer garden.

Race registration from 7 to 8:45 a.m. “Mud Puddles” Kid’s Race Area is open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Octoberfest Beer Garden and food from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Awards ceremony, costumed mud dive competition and concert from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Action Sports & Eco Fair booths from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Irvine Lake Mud Run supports the Scripps Institution of Oceanography efforts in coming up with solutions to help solve the “Great Pacific Garbage Patch” issue. Entry fee $40 per person. Kids Mud Puddle race fee $10 (ages 2 to 14). Irvine Lake Park at Santiago Canyon Road in Orange. 714.637.1871.