MEDIA ADVISORY: MU’s “Cosmic Conversations” Continues With Discussion of Visualization and Computer Technologies for Learning Astronomy

Story Contact(s):
Jeff Sossamon, sossamonj@missouri.edu, 573-882-3346

WHAT: This month’s “Cosmic Conversations” will focus on computer-based visualizations and simulations of deep space objects, with a presentation on several versions of computer desktop planetarium software that astronomy enthusiasts can use to study the universe without ever needing to leave the computer. In her lecture, “The Universe on Your Computer,” Lanika Ruzhitskaya, a postdoctoral fellow in the MU Department of Physics and Astronomy, will introduce attendees to the capabilities and underlying mechanisms of imaging technology. In particular, she will highlight Stellarium, Worldwide Telescope and Google Sky, as well as incorporate the animated film Quantum Quest: A Cassini Space Odyssey, the only science fiction adventure movie created for educational purposes.

The University of Missouri Department of Physics and Astronomy in the College of Arts and Science and the Central Missouri Astronomical Association host the monthly lecture series, “Cosmic Conversations.”  Lectures take place on the first Wednesday of each month. Laws Observatory, on the fifth floor of the physics building, is open after each lecture so that attendees may view the stars (weather permitting).

WHERE: The presentation will be held in Room 120, Physics Building Following the presentation, audience members are invited to the Laws Observatory, Physics Building MU campus

WHEN: 7 p.m., Wednesday, Mar. 5

WHO: MU astronomers and the general public

NOTE: This event is free and open to the public and was rescheduled from February.