Just Got Back From An Amazing Time At The Death Valley Dark Sky Festival! I Had The Privilege Of Supporting
Just got back from an amazing time at the Death Valley Dark Sky Festival! I had the privilege of supporting the event with my telescope, and the experience was unforgettable.
The skies were incredibly clear and dark on Friday and Saturday nights, perfect for stargazing despite the chilly weather. We had the chance to see Jupiter and its satellite, Mars, Venus, as well as deep-sky objects like M42, M36, M31, M44, and M45.
During the day on Saturday and Sunday, from 10 to 4, I was at the Visitor Center with my solar telescope, observing the Sun.
We welcomed over 1000 stargazers each night and more than 500 visitors during the day. I absolutely love this event and can't wait for the next one!
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Our morning was truly magical as we gathered with over 500 enthusiastic people, including many kids, to witness the partial solar eclipse event! 🔭🌞✨ Through the telescope, we marveled at the beauty of the sun's dance in the sky and were delighted to spot some sun spots! 🌟☀️ What an incredible experience of nature's wonders! 🌌🔭 #SolarEclipse #AstroAdventures #SunSpotSpectacular 🌒✨
Today at 1:21 in the morning, we welcomed the winter solstice, marking the longest night of the year. As the Earth tilts its furthest from the Sun in the Northern Hemisphere, we are reminded of the beauty and mystery of our cosmos.
This celestial event has been celebrated across cultures for centuries, symbolizing renewal and the gradual return of light. As we gaze up at the starry sky tonight, let's embrace the magic of the universe and allow the festive spirit to illuminate our hearts, just like the twinkling lights above.
Wishing you all a joyful winter season filled with wonder and warmth!
Last night's Lunar eclipse was a reminder of nature's wonders.
Despite the stormy weather and rain, the skies eventually cleared in time, allowing us to witness the Moon's incredible transformation. It's a beautiful lesson in patience and acceptance sometimes the most breathtaking moments come after the storms.
It gets dark enough to see Star around the Moon.
I captured the magic of the full moon through the telescope tonight!
Isn't it amazing how the universe reveals its wonders when we take a closer look? This lunar beauty never ceases to mesmerize me.
Thought of the day, Spring's Whisper in the Air
Though the celestial clock has yet to chime the official start of spring at 20:06 tonight, (Pacific time) the symphony of life around us is already tuning up to the melody of the season. #SpringIsHere in every sunbeam and sprouting leaf, and we're all invited to the early show!
Astronomically speaking, we're on the cusp of the vernal equinox, when day and night graciously share the stage in near-perfect balance. The Earth's tilt is about to bring us into a period of equal light and dark.
As we orbit our dependable star, we find ourselves in the embrace of warmer days, courtesy of the increasing angle of the sun's rays. It's a beautiful reminder that our planet's dance with the sun is as rhythmic as it is precise.
So while we count down the hours to the astronomical alignment that heralds the official start of spring, let's not wait to celebrate the changes all around us. The universe doesn't need an invitation to begin anew, and neither do we!
Feel the anticipation in the air? That's the universe conspiring to bring forth blossoms, longer days, and the freshness of a world reborn. Let's step outside and join the cosmic ballet!
Tonight, we had an incredible discussion about living in space, focusing on the Moon and Mars! The highlight was getting to peek through my telescope, we look at Caldwell 14, Saturn and the Moon. Although clouds played a bit of a trick on us, making Jupiter a little hard to see, the kids and groups still had a blast exploring the cosmos!
Thanks to everyone who joined us for this cosmic adventure. Here’s to more nights filled with stargazing and learning!
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Mars Opposition is Coming! Prepare for a celestial show this winter!
Get ready, stargazers! It has been 2.2 years. It is not the best opposition, but we can try. From late December 2024 to January 16th, 2025, Mars will reach its closest point to Earth (opposition).
This means the Red Planet will be brighter and bigger, and we'll even have a chance to see its icy south pole!
Don't miss this rare opportunity to gaze at the Red Planet's southernmost point. It's a once-in-a-while treat that will leave you starstruck! Share with friends and family who love space, and astronomy, or want to experience the thrill of witnessing something truly cosmic.
Check out this amazing AI-generated image of Mars' south pole!
Epic Journey Across America!
We passed through the majestic mountains of Colorado, the vast plains of Kansas, the lush Hoosier forests, and the breathtaking Appalachian scenery. Every moment was an adventure, filled with awe-inspiring landscapes and unforgettable experiences.
Here's to new beginnings and the road ahead!
From the high deserts of Nevada to the rolling hills of Virginia, we made an incredible trek! In just 3 days, we covered 2,311 miles in 37 hours and 26 minutes of just driving, witnessing the diverse beauty of this country.
Had an amazing morning at career Day.
Today, I had a full rotation of classes where I talked to the children about exciting careers in space, the importance of healthy eating, and gymnastics for keeping the bones healthy.
The children were so engaged and curious, I have a few who had fantastic questions. It was inspiring to see their interest in topics like black holes.
One of them tell me that after her PhD, she dreams of becoming a marine biologist on a moon base!
