Building Connection through Community-Based Astronomy (Abstract)

Volume 49 number 1 (2021)

Todd Duncan

Pacific University, Department of Physics, 2043 College Way, Forest Grove, OR 97116; tduncan@pacificu.edu

Erika Dunning

Pacific University, Department of Physics, 2043 College Way, Forest Grove, OR 97116; dunn6387@pacificu.edu

Abstract

(Abstract only) Looking at the night sky can help us feel more connected to our fellow humans—perhaps because it reminds us that what we have in common is far greater than our differences. In addition, the process of doing astronomy research can help us feel more connected to the larger universe. This presentation will summarize what we’ve learned by combining the two: bringing astronomy research (in the form of variable star photometry) out into public spaces to invite conversation and participation from anyone who happens to walk by our portable observatory.