Outreach Programs
The Tacoma Astronomical Society provides it's Outreach programs, listed below, to schools, libraries scouting and guide groups, other societies, organizations and groups. The programs are free of charge but donations are very weelcome as it promotes our outreach work throughout the region. Some activities, especially observing demonstrations, are weather permitting.
All enquiries and requests for outreach programs can be made by contacting our Outreach Director, Joe Witherspoon, through either outreach@tas-online.org or by inquiring through a TAS meeting or member.
Program Title |
Description |
Age Group |
Format |
|
Solar Party |
Solar viewing with solar filters. Safety is explained. |
K to 12 |
Demonstration |
|
Star Party |
Learn about the night sky and view astronomical objects through telescopes. |
All ages |
Demonstration |
|
Sky Search |
Covers the constellations, how to find the north star and learn to use a telescope. |
K to Adult |
Workshop and Demonstration |
|
Telescopes |
Learn the parts of a reflecting telescope and how to assemble a telescope. Learn about collimation. View astronomical objects. |
5th Grade to Adult |
Workshop and Demonstration |
|
Stomp Rockets |
An artful project to construct an air pressure launched rocket utilizing paperr, playing cards, paper clips and cellophane tape. |
All ages |
Workshop |
|
Scale of the Solar System |
Learn the meaning of distance within the solar system. Understand the different sizes of the planets. Requires 1.6 mile walk. |
3rd Grade to adult |
Workshop |
|
Planispheres |
Construct a star chart. Learn how to find the North Star. Learn the location of the 88 constellations. This is the most valuable astronomical tool for amateur astronomers. |
K to Adult |
Workshop, Presentation or Demonstration |
|
Comets |
Construct a comet out of raw materials. Process shows sublimation. Learn where comets come from. Learn about meteor showers. |
K to 12th Grade |
Workshop and presentation |
|
The Moon |
Learn about phases of the moon, craters and the history of the moon. Also learn about eclipses and create your own craters. |
K to 12 Grade |
Demonstration and presentation |
|
Operating Telescopes |
Learn about your telescope and how to operate it. Bring your telescope to our Public Night and have TAS volunteers instruct you and answer your questions. |
All ages |
One-on-one Workshop |
|
Sundials |
Make a sundial and learn about true north. Track the Sun and how to configure the sundial. |
K to 12 Grade |
Workshop |