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31 August 2001

Astronomy Classes for Beginners

Join me for a couple of fun-filled astronomy classes this fall...

 

Backyard Astronomy for Absolute Beginners

Objects and phenomena that boggle the mind are visible in our skies every clear evening. Designed for beginning stargazers, this course is designed for anyone interested in exploring the enjoyable and mind-expanding hobby of amateur astronomy. Dennis Mammana offers practical tips on how and when to observe celestial activity with the unaided eye, what kinds of optical devices are best for the beginner, and how to understand the maze of stars above us.

Includes:

  • Using sky maps and proper observing techniques
  • The changing stars and constellations
  • Movements of the sun, moon and planets
  • The universe through a small telescope
  • Dark-sky telescope observing (weather permitting)

Thursdays, September 6 - October 4, 2001, 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Friday, October 5, 2001, nighttime viewing session at dark sky site (weather permitting)

San Diego State University
College of Extended Studies
Course 01FA9742ES
Fee: $85.
Information & Registration: 619.594.5152
Secure registration online: https://cesregistration.sdsu.edu/sdsu/

 

Sky Photography for Absolute Beginners

In this lively and informative non-credit class, Dennis Mammana will demonstrate how even the simplest of cameras can record stars, constellations, planets, satellites, meteors, comets, the sun, the moon, and more. Not only will you discover practical tips on capturing the cosmos on film but, more importantly, how to create magnificent and colorful portraits of the heavens with only a camera and tripod. No telescopic photography is covered in this basic class. (To see examples of techniques you'll learn, visit Mammana's Student Photo Gallery at www.skyscapes.com).

Familiarity with general photographic and camera terminology and operation is helpful.

Includes:

  • Useful cameras, film and equipment
  • Most common misconceptions about sky photography
  • Common photo "flubs" to avoid
  • Dark-sky photo session (weather permitting)
  • Evaluation of your images

Thursdays, October 11 - November 1, 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Saturday, October 27: Nighttime photo session at dark-sky site (weather permitting)

San Diego State University
College of Extended Studies
Noncredit Schedule No. 01FA9743ES
Fee: $85.
Information & Registration: 619.594.5152

Secure registration online: https://cesregistration.sdsu.edu/sdsu/