SUNSET: 
Upcoming Astronomy Events
As a service to our community, Sky & Telescope lists astronomy-related events, including star parties, observatory public nights, astronomy talks, and more. Star parties offer dark skies and astronomical fellowship and often cater to families and feature special activities for kids. Public nights give the general public a chance to view the sky through large telescopes, and public talks are a great place to learn the fundamentals of the science and the craft.
You’ll also see online events offered here.
And if you’d like free copies of Sky & Telescope‘s Let’s Go Stargazing flyer or door prizes for your next star party, you can fill out this form.
Introduction to Amateur Astronomy
Stargazing is easy, and astronomy is something anyone can do and enjoy. You just have to get started off on the right foot. Starting out wrong can lead to disappointment, frustration, and wasted money. Starting out right can lead to a lifetime of celestial exploration and enjoyment. Today, the hobby of astronomy - the biggest and most mind-boggling branch of amateur nature study - is attracting more people than ever. The Kalamazoo Astronomical Society is happy to present a five-part lecture series that will help you become a star-hopping skymaster!
January 13th: Part 1 - Our Place Among the Infinities
For the first presentation, we'll travel through our solar system, explore the star clusters and nebulae of our Milky Way Galaxy, and the countless other galaxies in this vast, infinite universe.
January 27th: Part 2 - Discovering the Night Sky
Learn how to find any star or constellation in the night sky with the use of a simple star map and find out what else you can observe with just your eyes alone.
February 10th: Part 3 - Binocular Basics
Binoculars make an ideal first "telescope," but which ones are best for astronomy?
February 24th: Part 4 - Telescope Tutorial
Learn about the basic types of telescopes and which one is best for you. If you already have a telescope but need help then bring it along.
March 9th: Part 5 - The Art of Astrophotography
Digital cameras have made capturing the sky easier than ever. Learn how!
The lecture series will again be offered online via the video conferencing service Zoom. Admission is FREE but those interested in attending are asked to register on the series webpage. Registrants will be provided with the Zoom webinar link, along with comprehensive notes for each installment of the series.
Those participants that attend ALL FIVE parts in their entirety and sign-in as instructed during each lecture will receive a Certificate of Completion. Only then will you be a full-fledged amateur astronomer!
