Science & Math   

How did human beings figure out their physical place in the universe? How special is our human frame of reference? What information about the universe and our place in it, can we get with our naked eyes? From ancient Greece to the present, what have humans understood light energy to be? One needs to “think physically” about what happens in the world and accept explanations for events only in terms of other physical events that you know are possible. The question always is: Why do we believe what we do about the natural world? Why is the daylight sky blue or the evening or morning sky red and yellow? What do stars and constellations tell us? Historically, how did we make sense of this physical world?

Ever wonder about the names of the birds you see when you are walking about the neighborhood or in a park? Do you enjoy being out in nature? Come with us to various local parks to explore birding whether you are a beginner or a seasoned birder. Explore a great way to escape the business of life and learn about the various birds. Enjoy the social interaction with fellow OLLI members. Enjoy learning something new and possibly begin a healthy hobby or just satisfy your curiosity—this is a win-win adventure. Participants are encouraged to bring binoculars, to wear walking shoes, and have transportation to travel to local parks.

Guide: Elaine Swift: Elaine is a Birding citizen scientist, currently a member of two Audubon chapters, in the past volunteered at the IBR International Bird Rescue, monitored endangered birds in OC and has taken birding classes.

We will begin by examining our star, the Sun, and learning about the maximum solar storm activity expected this year, potentially producing effects on Earth like radio blackouts, power outages, and spectacular northern lights. Then, we will leave our sun behind and analyze the properties of stars. Finally, we will study the evolution of stars and investigate the remnants of dead stars such as supernovae and black holes. Through these studies, we will gain an understanding that “we are star dust.” All class sessions feature striking visual presentations and stunning images taken with powerful telescopes like JWST. We will also use an open-source virtual planetarium that shows a realistic sky in 3D, just like what you see with the naked eye.