Dr. Molly Simon, Assistant Professor,School of Earth and Space Exploration, Arizona State University

Topic: Data At Your Fingertips: Unlocking the Potential of People Powered Research. Dr. Simon show us how this works and the benefits from citizens being involved in major science endeavors.

Dr. Travis Rector, Professor of Physics and Astronomy, University of Alaska Anchorage. How and Why We Make Color Composite Images at Professional Observatories: Discusses use of Imagery and Visualization of Research Data of Young Stellar Objects in Star-forming Regions and Multi-wavelength Observational Techniques. Here is a link to a video that serves as an introduction to Dr. Rector’s photography passion.

Luke Edens is a volunteer Arizona Site Steward for archaeological preservation and Vice President of the Friends of Agua Fria National Monument (FAFNM) and outreach coordinator and chairperson of their dark sky committee. He is also an active member of their cultural committee. Luke is also, the Vice President of the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) Phoenix Area Chapter. Topic: Discovery of the Dark Sky. Luke shares his experience on learning the night sky, mission of the International Dark-Sky Association, awareness about light pollution, basics of astrophotography and the astronomical resources available to the public within Arizona.

Will Oldroyd, Graduate Scholar in Astronomy and Planetary Science at NAU. Will’s main research focuses on searching for a mysterious undiscovered giant planet—called Planet X—hidden in the distant outer solar system. Topic: “The Search for Planet X”. Will discusses the history and current state of the hunt for a hidden world orbiting deep in the far reaches of our solar system.

Casey Good, Public Outreach Specialist at Kitt Peak, and reknowned astrophotographer. Topic: Kitt Peak National Observatory and Visitor Center in the 2020s. Casey discusses the major scientific endeavors of the observatory and the current and planned Visitor Center programs available to members of the public.