Astronomy Outreach
Public interest in astronomy is immense. I feel popularization of astronomy is an excellent vehicle for stimulating interest in natural science in general. Astronomy is one of the few scientific fields that interacts directly with society. Not only does it transcend borders, but also actively promotes collaborations across the globe.....
Public program Specialist - Kitt Peak National Observatory Visitor Centre
Kitt Peak National Observatory is home to one of the largest arrays of optical and radio telescopes in the world. In addition to conducting ground-breaking astronomical research, the Kitt Peak National Observatory Visitor Center programs are open to you through daytime guided tours and a variety of evening stargazing programs. My role is to enlighten people with informative nighttime stargazing tours and telescope viewing programs, fascinating exhibits, a terrific gift shop, and beautiful panoramic mountaintop views!
A clear night on Kitt Peak is not to be missed or soon forgotten. The nation's observatory was built here for its dark, frequently clear skies and you can share in those views. All day, evening, and special programs are free to members of the Tohono O'odham Nation except the Overnight Telescope Program (OTOP).
My duties for this role include -- Conducting the very popular Nightly Observing Program for audiences including the general public tour groups, schools, youth groups and others.
- Leading stargazing sessions, demonstrating the use of planispheres, and leads binocular viewing of the night sky.
- Setting up and operating telescopes and interpreting astronomical views for visitors.
- Demonstrating and interpreting the function of telescopes and astronomical equipment.
- Enthusiastically welcoming all guests, checking in program participants upon their arrival, distributing visitor dinners, and operating the Point Of Sale cash register in the Gift Shop.
- Accurately answering a wide variety of questions from the general public.
- Works carefully with a variety of expensive equipment, electronics, and optics.
- Conducting or assisting with other Visitor Center classes, workshops, and VIP Tours, as needed.
Telescope Operator - Flandrau Observatory
Flandrau’s Observatory is operated entirely by volunteers. I give delightful experiences throungh the 16-inch telescope as well as answer questions about the night sky that the public encounters.
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