This series features an astronomer or scientist who will discuss a topic of current interest and includes Q&A. A telescope viewing follows.

This month’s talk: The A to Z of Galaxies

Have you ever wondered what will happen when our galaxy and the Andromeda galaxy smash into each other in a few billion years? Or why hasn’t the supermassive black hole at the center of our galaxy sucked us all in already? Together, we will discover these answers and more as we explore the diverse world of galaxies: what they are, how they grow, how they die, and how they dance along the cosmic web that spans our universe. As we dive into galaxies, we will also touch on other related topics such as black holes, dark matter, dark energy, and more, seeing how galaxies coexist and evolve in a complex and grand universe. Bring the family and enjoy the pretty pictures as we learn about galaxies together.

About the speaker:

Aaron Stemo, PhD, is an astrophysicist working at Vanderbilt University as National Science Foundation Mathematical and Physical Sciences Ascending Postdoctoral Research Fellow, where he studies how galaxies and their supermassive black holes grow and evolve together. A lot of his research focuses on using large collections of data from multiwavelength surveys to better understand this “coevolution” during galaxy merger events, but he is also interested in incorporating new tools from gravitational wave astronomy (i.e., using multimessenger astronomy) to explore coevolution as well.

This talk includes Q&A. Telescope viewings follow when weather permits. Recommended for ages 12 and up.

This event will be held on our heated/tented back patio to accommodate the huge demand for this talk. Please note that you may wish to dress in layers for maximum comfort, and the telescope viewing will be in an unheated dome.

Please note:

• You do not need to bring a printed ticket; there will be a guest list at the gate.
• The exhibits on the main floor are handicapped accessible, but the Seyfert telescope on the second floor is only accessible by stairs. There are twenty steps, split by a large landing, leading to the dome. Climbing additional portable steps may be necessary to see through the eyepiece.
• Notify the gate attendant if you have special parking needs.
• Closed-toe footwear is suggested.
• If your plans change and you cannot attend, you may invite someone you know to use your tickets/names for entry.
• Because this is Vanderbilt University property, firearms and smoking are not allowed.
• Please let us know when you get your tickets if someone in your group cannot climb the stairs, so we may attempt to make accommodation with another telescope if skies are clear enough for viewing.

Address: 1000 Oman Drive, Brentwood TN 37027 (NOT on the main Vanderbilt campus)

Cost:  $6.27 per person ($5.00 admission plus $1.27 online handling fee.) Each person must have their own reservation. Infants do not require tickets.

NO TICKETS SOLD AT DOOR. Tickets may be purchased up to the day of the event, but please be aware this event often sells out well ahead.

NO REFUNDS OR EXCHANGES. THIS IS A CLEAR OR CLOUDY EVENT.

More event details are below.