Coconino Community College - Flagstaff

Flagstaff is one of the best small cities in the country for night sky observing – this is why there are so many major observatories here! But it also attracts amateur astronomers from around the U.S. – many come here to retire so they can pursue their hobby.

As a hobby, astronomy is very rewarding. You can see planets, asteroids, galaxies, star clusters, planets and comets. It is important to have realistic expectations though – and in this course we will try to provide opportunities to look at different objects using telescopes, and show you how different kinds of telescopes work. While we hope we will have clear skies for observing, we will introduce you to the major ideas in class, and take advantage of planetarium software to demonstrate many core ideas.

This course is intended for people of all backgrounds. Yes, there will be some technical stuff every now and then but none of this will prevent you from enjoying telescope viewing.

Please bring warm clothing and a hat for nights when we go outside to use telescopes.

Padraig Houlahan has taught many classes at CCC and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Math, Physics, Astronomy, Aircraft Systems, and Turbine Engine Technologies. He has a Ph.D. and an M.A. in Astronomy from University of Texas at Austin, as well as a B.A. in Theoretical Physics from Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland. He is also a Certified Flight Instructor.

This course meets on four Wednesdays, from 6:30 to 8 p.m.