Hailey Public Library will host “A Slide Tour of the Universe” with the Central Idaho Dark Sky Alliance 2023 Astronomer in Residence, Dr. Joel Weisberg, on Thursday, July 27, from 5:30-7 p.m. The talk is co-sponsored by CIDSR and Boise State University Physics Department. It will be held at Town Center West and live streamed.
“This presentation is intended for anyone age 12 and older who is interested in astronomy and our beautiful dark skies,” commented programs and engagement manager Kristin Fletcher. “Dr. Weisberg will take us from our Earth to the farthest reaches of the universe, stopping along the way to view various beautiful astronomical images and to learn about these fascinating objects. Audience questions are encouraged.”
Joel Weisberg, Ph.D., is a lifelong stargazer who loves sharing the night skies with others. He is a 2023 Astronomer in Residence with the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve STEM Network. This is a NASA-funded program through Boise State University Physics Department, which works closely with the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve to bring science to classrooms, libraries, and other public venues.
Dr. Weisberg received his bachelor’s degree in earth and planetary sciences from Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a master’s in astronomy and a Ph.D. in physics, both from the University of Iowa. He served as Assistant Professor of Physics at Princeton University from 1981–1984 before becoming the Stark Professor of Physics and Astronomy and Science Policy at Carleton College in Minnesota. He retired from teaching four years ago.
Dr. Weisberg will also lead a nighttime observing session on Saturday, August 12, from 9:30-11:30 p.m. out Croy Canyon west of Hailey. Highlights will include the Perseid Meteor Shower, deep sky objects, bright planets and spectacular summer constellations. The BSU AstroTAC team plus popular local astronomer Tim Frazier and friends will be on hand with cool telescopes.
Hailey Town Center West is located across from the library at 116 South River Street in Hailey. For more information about this and other talks, call (208) 788-2036 or visit www.haileypubliclibrary.org.