Brookline's Clay Center Observatory has a world-class, research-grade telescope. This course is for stargazers, serious astronomers, or those who love to ponder mysteries beyond the blue sky. In Section 01 our focus will be to reveal the changing beauty of the sky by using telescopes and other standard tools of astronomy. Students will learn enough that they may continue on their own afterwards. We'll observe with telescopes, identify constellations, and examine the wealth of space with an emphasis on the most stunning Messier Objects. Weather permitting, the class will use Clay Center's 25-inch research-grade telescope, its fiber-optics-lit Stars and Moon Courtyards, and portable telescopes similar to what students and their families may already own. Section 02 will continue practical observations as weather permits, but will also discuss the biggest questions in astronomy. How do we know what the universe looks like? What is the fate of the Sun? What is a black hole? Are there other planets like Earth? The class will discuss the rise of astrophysics in the early 20th century and the central role of spectroscopy. Students will use various laboratory spectroscopes and an ocular spectroscope on the 25-inch Clay telescope. We'll also explore current research regarding the origin, size, and age of the universe.

Please note: Some courses may have an additional materials fee payable to the instructor that is not included in the total fee. Please contact the school for details.

Please be sure to read our Refund, Transfer, and Withdrawal policy before registering for a class.

A $6 registration fee is charged once per person per semester. This fee helps fund scholarships so that all can participate. The fee does not apply to courses of $15 or less.