Monday, September 28, 2009

Why Astronomy?

I’ve always been interested in space—the stuff beyond the sky (hence the blog name). A year ago I was able to meet one of my graduation requirements with a course in astronomy. Having an interest, and needing the credits, it was a no brainer. From that point on my interest in astronomy has only heightened. I am now exploring on my own and learning about the mysteries of the Universe through journals, books, and even podcasts.

Astronomy is not a required subject in most high schools, and most do not even offer it as an option—this is unfortunate. Learning about astronomy has given me a greater appreciation for the direct world around me. It is a different perspective, and a refreshing one—a macroscopic view of our microscopic lives.

For this blog I plan to discuss the things that I am learning. Consider this a blog from a learner, to a learner. My hope is that together with my readers we can both learn more about astronomy, as well as spread the interest to others.

2 comments:

  1. When I started college as a lowly freshman, I was a physics major and I specialized in Astronomy. I adore Astronomy and its study, but unfortunately, I am not cut out for it. I also loved Philosophy growing up and even in college, but my parents let me know there was no money in the field and talked me out of it. This blog really caught me, and I resonate with many of the views you expressed.

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  2. I cannot wait to read some of your future blogs. I have always been amazed at the vastness of the universe. One of my favorite experiences with looking at the stars came when I was vacationing in Northern California and spent the night outside underneath the stars without a tent. My family and I were at the least 100 - 250 miles to the nearest big town. I was able to lie down on my mat, stare at the stars for 2 hours and just be amazed at how many there were. I remember having the feeling that I could feel the Earth move. To this day, that memory astonishes me.

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