A Tour of the Night Sky: Astronomy Made Simple

How often have you marveled at the immensity and beauty of the night sky and wished that you knew more about what you were witnessing? Here is your chance. In this introductory astronomy course you will discover how to track the celestial motions of the moon, stars and planets that fill the sky above us each and every night. You'll learn how to knowledgeably use a planisphere or "star finder" so that you can locate stars, constellations and planets year round from your very own backyard. Additionally, you’ll gain insight into how daring explorers of the past used the stars to fix their locations on the globe and guide themselves (sometimes with astonishing accuracy) on featureless oceans or in uncharted wildernesses.

The basics of how a telescope operates also will be covered. You will be guided through hands-on in-class astronomy activities by a knowledgeable instructor who has worked with adult learners for many years. Stunning PowerPoint slides also will illustrate the awesome beauty and mystery of the solar system in which we reside.The course will include a visit to the L.E. Phillips Planetarium on the UW-Eau Claire campus for a show developed especially for this class.

Date/Time/Location

Tuesdays, September 16, 23, 30 and October 7, 2008
6: 30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

UW-Eau Claire Campus
Human Sciences & Services Building, Room 179
239 Water Street, Eau Claire
Free parking is available

Presenter

Nathan Miller: Connecting Campus and Community

Dr. Nathan Miller, a faculty member in UW-Eau Claire's Department of Physics and Astronomy, believes strongly in making the night sky accessible to the casual observer.  He's been a guest lecturer at UW-Madison's "Space Place" public outreach center and the Chippewa Valley's own Hobbs Observatory.  Additionally, Dr. Miller has offered introductory astronomy programs for general audiences throughout the Wisconsin state park system as part of UW-Madison's extremely popular "Universe in the Park" program.  In 2005, Dr. Miller received the Cottrell College Science Award for his research focusing on X-ray emission from hot stars using data from NASA's orbiting Chandra X-ray Observatory (X-ray astronomy is a particular area of his interest and expertise).  

Fee

$95

Brochure - [PDF] -

Transfers/Cancellations:
You may cancel your registration up to 5 business days before the program and we will refund your payment less a $25 cancellation fee. If you need to cancel less than 5 business days prior to the program no refund will be given. You may substitute another person for your registration at any time. Just call the Continuing Education Office (715-836-3636/toll free 866-893-2423) and we’ll take care of everything.