Earth is constantly bombarded by dust and debris from space, most of which burns up harmlessly in our atmosphere. But history—and the solar system itself—reminds us that large impacts do occur, and that it’s only a matter of time before our planet encounters another sizable asteroid or comet. In this class, we’ll explore how often significant impacts happen, what we’ve learned from past events, and the realistic strategies scientists are developing to detect, deflect, or mitigate a threatening object.

Class level: Introductory - This class is recommended for guests of any background. Classes will be held in Mitchel (smaller) building.

Tickets: Non-members - $25/class, Members - $20/class, Student (with valid ID) - $10/class

It’s been just over a decade since scientists made the first confirmed detection of a gravitational wave—subtle ripples in the fabric of space-time predicted by Einstein. These waves have opened an entirely new window onto the Universe, revealing phenomena that were once invisible to traditional astronomy. In this class, we’ll explore how gravitational waves are detected, what they’ve taught us about their extraordinary sources, and how this emerging field is reshaping the future of astrophysics.

Class level: Introductory - This class is recommended for guests of any background. Classes will be held in Mitchel (smaller) building.

Tickets: Non-members - $25/class, Members - $20/class, Student (with valid ID) - $10/class

While much scientific research is conducted by professional scientists, there are countless opportunities for everyday citizens to contribute to cutting-edge discoveries. In astronomy, the flood of data from modern survey telescopes has created a growing need for many eyes and minds to help analyze and understand what we see in the universe. In this class, you’ll explore a variety of astronomical citizen science projects and learn how you can participate—no advanced degree required. Discover how your curiosity and time can help advance real research and contribute to our understanding of the cosmos.

Class level: Introductory - This class is recommended for guests of any background.

Tickets:

Non-members - $25/class, Members - $20/class, Student (with valid ID) - $10/class

It’s easy to assume that the brightest stars in the night sky are the closest to Earth—but in astronomy, appearances can be deceiving. Measuring distance has long been one of the field’s greatest challenges, yet astronomers have assembled a remarkable “distance ladder” that extends from our cosmic backyard to the very edge of the observable Universe. In this class, we’ll explore how astronomers measure distance, from bouncing lasers off the Moon to using stars and galaxies to probe the largest scales of the cosmos.

Class level: Intermediate - This class is recommended for guests with some science and mathematics background.

Tickets:

Non-members - $25/class, Members - $20/class, Student (with valid ID) - $10/class

Our nearest celestial neighbor is often taken for granted, yet it is one of the most fascinating and unique worlds in the Solar System. The Moon is the only place beyond Earth ever visited by humans—and soon, we may return. From how the Moon formed and what lies beneath its surface to how it shapes life on Earth and future plans for lunar exploration, this class takes an up-close look at the Moon as both a scientific mystery and humanity’s next destination. 

Class level: Introductory - This class is recommended for guests of any background.

Tickets:

Non-members - $25/class, Members - $20/class, Student (with valid ID) - $10/class