Putting the Stars within reach of our students and the rest of us

Too many of our students today lack an interest in science and mathematics. Certainly, knowledge and ability in these subjects is vital to the success of our students as they enter into the technologically advanced 21st century.

Few subjects can stir one's interest and imagination like astronomy. Astronomy is an exciting subject, one that is both intellectual and aesthetic. We believe this excitement can be used to create a desire for learning that will impact the student's success in science, mathematics, and other subjects.

We wish to ignite the intellectual spark in students by making the expertise and facilities of the Society available to as many students and educators as possible.

Education

The Society owns and operates The Charles and Dorothy Turner Research Station near Clifton, Texas. The research station is a five-acre site that will provide an observatory, observing field, amphitheater, educational building, and telescope-training center under dark skies.

The new Paul J. Meyer Observatory will house a 24-inch robotic, research-grade telescope. Up to 45% of the telescope time will be made available to students and teachers, who will be able to access the instrument over the Internet from their classroom computer.

For example, a student studying the star Vega will be able to use the telescope to obtain a spectrum and other data from the star, downloading the data to the classroom computer. With this data the student will be able to determine what the star is made of, how hot it is, how old it is, and how far away it is! The student will do real science! Of course, students will also be able to visit the observatory in person.

Research

Astronomy is the last remaining science in which the amateur can still make a meaningful contribution. At least 35% of the telescope time will be devoted to original research. With its instrument packages, the robotic telescope will be able to reach objects as faint as the 21st magnitude or fainter! Professionals, amateurs, students and educators at all levels will conduct real scientific research at the observatory.

Public Outreach and Programs

The Society will conduct public viewing sessions at the observatory on a regular basis. The Society conducts star-parties for school children and other organizations at schools and other public sites. The Society also assists the public and news media by providing timely information about current astronomical events.

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