With our funding, the first-year Astronomy course was equipped with essential lab materials that elevated the learning experience and brought Observational Astronomy to life. Students gained access to a class set of materials for two telescope labs, where they built and explored each of the main types of telescopes, and a spectroscopy kit that allowed them to analyze the wavelengths of light emitted by various sources.
These hands-on activities provided students with enriching opportunities to deepen their understanding of Astronomy while developing key scientific skills. Spectroscopy, a cornerstone tool in the field, enabled students to determine the elemental composition of distant stars and planets and even calculate the Sun’s temperature. These experiences allowed students to truly see themselves as astronomers, connecting theoretical knowledge to real-world applications.
The telescope labs introduced students to the principles of optics and engaged them in the engineering design process, where they designed, built, and analyzed their creations. This grant transformed the course into an interactive and engaging learning environment, fostering a deeper connection to science and inspiring the next generation of astronomers.
