UC Berkeley Events:

A Census of Baryons in Groups and Clusters of Galaxies
Seminar: Cosmology Seminars | February 23 | 1:10-2 p.m. | 544
Campbell Hall

Speaker/Performer: Ann Zabludoff, Arizona
Sponsor: Astronomy, Department of

We have now discovered that intracluster stars are a significant part
of the stellar baryons in galaxy clusters and groups. The detection
of this previously unexplored baryonic component has consequences for
the baryon budget of clusters and its relationship to the universal
value obtained from WMAP observations of the cosmic microwave
background radiation. Because metals produced by intracluster stars
do not need to escape from galaxies, but are instead directly
injected into the intergalactic medium, the existence of this stellar
population also has significant consequences for the enrichment
history of the hot, X-ray-emitting, intracluster gas. I will review
our recent work characterizing the properties of intracluster stars,
as well as new constraints on missing baryons on the scales of
clusters and groups, on whether it is possible to account for the
high metal content of the intracluster medium, and on the mass
profiles of the largest bound systems in the universe.

============ ========= ==

A Revised Perspective on Galactic Structure
Colloquium: Astronomy Colloquia: Cosmology Seminars | February 25 |
4:10-5 p.m. | 1 LeConte Hall

Speaker/Performer: Dennis Zaritsky, Arizona
Sponsor: Astronomy, Department of

Unlike the theory of stellar structure, which has a simple and
intuitive outline, that of galactic structure is piecemeal and ad
hoc. In fact, it has been difficult even to determine whether or not
one should expect there to be such an analog. Numerical modeling of
the problem grows ever more sophisticated and detailed in its efforts
to match observations, suggesting that perhaps the problem is beyond
any simple description. However, I will, using simple and general
arguments, demonstrate that the global structure of galaxies of all
sizes, masses, and morphological types can be described to a high
degree using only two observational parameters. I will then explore
the nature of those two parameters and ultimately present an attempt
to tie those to basic physical parameters, thereby providing
(perhaps) a simple and intuitive outline of galactic structure.

 

  
Wed. 2/10

SETI Institute Colloquium Series
515 N. Whisman Road, Mountain View

When: Wednesday, Feb. 10, 12:00 noon
Where: The SETI Institute, Arecibo Rm.

Observing String Multiverse with Astrophysical Black Holes

One of the most intriguing and controversial recent ideas in
cosmology and string theory is that the Universe is highly
inhomogeneous on the length scales much longer than its currently
observable part, with many of the fundamental 'constants' of Nature
varying on the ultra-long length scales. Our location in this cosmic
landscape is to a large extent determined by requiring that the local
particle physics parameters should allow for life to develop. Dr.
Dubovsky will review the origin of these ideas and explain how they
can be supported by the near future observations of astrophysical
black holes.
Sergei Dubovsky, Stanford University Institute For Theoretical Physics

============ =======

Thurs. 2/11 4:15PM

Lockheed Martin's Advanced Technology Center
Lockheed Martin ATC Auditorium in Building 202

3251 Hanover Street, Palo Alto,
CA 94304

Dr. Marcia Rieke, University of Arizona

An Insider’s View of an Astronomy Decadal Survey – 02/11/2010 4:00
PM

Lockheed Martin ATC Auditorium, Bldg 202, Palo Alto
Every ten years the National Academy of Sciences organizes a survey
of research in astronomy and astrophysics. Funding agencies task the
Academy survey committee with making recommendations for future
projects and mission. The agencies use the survey committee
recommendations to guide their funding decisions. Astro2010 is the
survey nearing conclusion now. Dr. Rieke will describe how the
process works and how this year's survey differs from those of the past.
Note: This info is from the Lockheed Martin Colloquia web site which
shows a different lecture from what is currently on the Bay Area
Science list (Biomaterials and Controlled Drug Release). You may
want to contact Lockeed Martin to confirm the event.
============ ========= ====
Thurs. 2/11 UC Berkeley Astronomy Dept. Colloquium

Results from NASA's Deep Impact Mission to Comet Tempel 1
Colloquium: Astronomy Colloquia | February 11 | 4:10-5 p.m. | 1
LeConte Hall

Speaker/Performer: Jay Melosh, Purdue University
Sponsor: Astronomy, Department of

In the early hours of July 4, 2005, one of the two of NASA's Deep
Impact spacecraft splashed down on the surface of Comet Tempel 1 at
10.2 km/sec, creating an impact crater about 100 m in diameter and 30
m deep. The second spacecraft, passing by at the safe distance of 500
km, sent images of the event back to Earth. The object of this
interplanetary kamikaze mission was to dig deep beneath the surface
dust deposits and expose the pristine interior 1 to 10 m below the
surface. The mission succeeded spectacularly: The impact threw out
about 10 million kilograms of fine dust, tarry organic material,
frozen water and CO2, after creating an initial jet of melted
silicates and vaporized ices. Analysis of more than 4,000 images and
spectra returned from the two spacecraft, revealed that old ideas
about the structure of comets must be substantially revised. On
November 4 of this year, the Deep Impact team is returning to Tempel
1 via the Stardust spacecraft to examine the consequences of the
impact in more detail and complete our survey of the comet's surface.

Event Contact: steph@astro. berkeley. edu, 510-642-5275

============ ========= =

Fri 2/12-Peninsula Astronomical Society meeting

Foothill Community College
Peninsula Astronomical Society Meeting 7:30PM
Foothill Community College
12345 Moody Rd.
Los Altos Hills
Rm 8402, Bldg. 8400 next to Parking Lot#8 near the entrance to the
College. Parking is $2.00

The Lives of Stars with Dr. Ken Croswell

The stars that speckle the sky have long fascinated humanity, but
only in the past century have astronomers figured out how stars are
born, live, and die. Now we can use this knowledge to address the
question: Which stars near the Sun might have planets with
intelligent life? Drawing on both the laws of stellar evolution and
the latest discoveries of extrasolar planets, Harvard-trained
astronomer Dr. Ken Croswell describes the lives of stars and the
alien worlds they may support.

Dr. Ken Croswell earned his Ph.D. in astronomy at Harvard University
and is the author of eight astronomy books, including Magnificent
Universe, Ten Worlds, and The Lives of Stars.

============ ========= ========
Fri. 2/12

Foothill Community College
12345 Moody Rd.
Los Altos Hills

Foothill Observatory is open for public viewing every clear Friday
evening from 9:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. Visitors can view the wonders
of the universe through the observatory' s new computer-controlled 16-
inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope. Views of objects in our solar
system may include craters and mountains on the moon, the moons and
cloud-bands of Jupiter, the rings of Saturn, etc. The choice of
targets for any evening's viewing depends on the season and what
objects are currently in the sky.

On clear, dark, moonless nights, the telescopes give visitors views
into the deeper reaches of space. Star clusters, nebulae, and distant
galaxies provide dramatic demonstrations of the vastness of the cosmos.

The public viewing programs at Foothill are free of charge and are
open to guests of all ages. Please note that the observatory is
closed when the weather is cloudy. Also note that visitor parking
permits are available from the machines in the parking lots for $2.00.

Come to Foothill Observatory and join us in the exploration of our
Universe!

Foothill Observatory is located on the campus of Foothill College in
Los Altos Hills, CA. Take Highway 280 to the El Monte Rd exit. The
observatory is next to parking lot 4. Parking at the college requires
visitor parking permits that are available from the machines in the
parking lots for $2.00.

============ ========= =====

Sat. 2/13 10AM-12PM

Foothill Community College
12345 Moody Rd.
Los Altos Hills

Foothill College Observatory 10AM-12PM if it is clear
Solar observing with a Hydrogen alpha solar telescope every clear
Saturday morning. This allows spectacular views of solar prominences
and unusual surface features on the Sun not otherwise visible with
regular white light telescopes. Admission is free.

Foothill Observatory is located on the campus of Foothill College in
Los Altos Hills, CA. Take Highway 280 to the El Monte Rd exit. The
observatory is next to parking lot 4. Parking at the college requires
visitor parking permits that are available from the machines in the
parking lots for $2.00.

============ ========= ========= =

Fri.2/12 and Sat. 2/13

Chabot Space and Science Center
10000 Skyline Boulevard
Oakland, CA 94619-2450
(510) 336-7300

EXPLORE THE NIGHT SKIES AT THE CHABOT OBSERVATORIES
for more information:
http://www.chabotsp ace.org/

Free Telescope Viewing
Regular hours are every Friday & Saturday evening, weather permitting:
7:30pm - 10:30pm
Come for spectacular night sky viewing the best kept secret in the
Bay Area and see the magnificence of our telescopes in action!
DAytime Telescope Viewing
On Saturday and Sunday afternoons come view the sun, moon, or Venus
through Chabot's telescopes. Free with General Admission.
(weather permitting)
12pm - 5pm: Observatories Open

============ =========
Fri. 2/12 and Sat. 2/13
Chabot Space and Science Center-Don't miss the new Tales of the Maya
Skies!
10000 Skyline Boulevard
Oakland, CA 94619-2450
(510) 336-7300

Dinner, a Movie, and the Universe at Chabot Space Center
06:00 PM
Chabot Space and Science Center, Oakland
Join us for Chabot's unique evening social rendezvous.
Start your night off with dinner and drinks, then cozy up in the
planetarium as you're whisked to the edge of the universe and cap off
the evening with telescope viewing featuring breathtaking views of
the cosmos. Dinner: Buy advance tickets to ensure your dinner
reservation. Purchase dinner separately at the cafe ($15).

ADVANCED TICKETS
A Movie and the Universe: Admission to Chabot includes all access to
our interactive exhibitions, a film in the MegaDome theater AND a
show in the Digital Planetarium. Purchase your advanced tickets
online or call the Box Office at (510) 336-7373.
============ ========= =

Fri. & Sat.2/13 and 14

Chabot Space and Science Center
10000 Skyline Blvd
Oakland, CA 94619 USA

Valentine's Day Love Missions

TAKE A ROMANTIC VOYAGE
February 13 (1:30pm & 3:30pm)
February 14 (1:30pm & 3:30pm)

Celebrate with your Valentine on a simulated space mission to the Red
Planet. This package includes an all access pass to the Center,
chocolates, fizzy Martian beverage, and a souvenir of your trip.

Guests: $85 Per Couple

Members: $80 Per Couple

Email: info@chabotspace. org or call (510) 336-7300 for reservations

============ ========

Sat. 2/13-San Mateo Co. Astr. Soc. Star Party

Sat. 2/13-Star Parties At Crestview Park, San Carlos

Sunset: 05:46P

Star Parties At Crestview Park
Come out and bring the kids for a mind expanding look at the universe

The City of San Carlos Parks and Recreation Department and the San
Mateo County Astronomical Society has open Star Parties twice a
month. These events are held in Crestview Park, San Carlos California.

Sunset at 4:51PM Note that inclement weather
(clouds, excessive wind and showers) will cause the event to be
canceled without notice.

For more information call Bob Black, (650)592-2166, or send an email
to SMCAS@live.com or call Ed Pieret at (650)862-9602.

Reasons to Attend
If you have kids interested in space or planets bring them here for a
real life view of planets, nebula, star clusters and galaxies.
If you are thinking of buying a telescope or want help using a
telescope you own, come here to talk with experienced users.
If you think you might have an interest in astronomy come and talk to
experienced amateur astronomers.

Cautions
Dress warmly and wear a hat.
Visitors should park on the street and walk into the park so your
headlights don't affect the observer's dark adaptation.
Only park in the parking lot if you are arriving before dark and plan
to stay until the end of the event.
You shouldn't need lights but if you feel you do, only bring a small
flashlight with the lens covered using red cellophane or red balloon.
Please respect the telescopes and ask permission from the owner if
you wish to touch.
Parents, please watch your children.
The park is residential, and adjacent to homes and backyards, please
keep noise to a minimum.
Schedule
Time

Astronomers arrive to set up at around sunset. Observing starts at
about one hour after sunset and continues for two to three hours.

============ =======

Tues. 2/16-7PM

Ask a Scientist
350 Kansas St
Horatius
San Francisco, CA 94103 USA

Quantum Mechanics
The world of the very small isn't simply a scaled-down version of the
big world we experience in every day life. That's why while classical
mechanics accurately describes the motion of heavenly bodies, rocket
ships, baseballs, and seesaws, we need quantum mechanics to describe
the behavior of energy and matter at the atomic scale. And in this
miniature world, some weird stuff can happen. An object can be in two
places at the same time. Particles can pop into existence and then
vanish, or go from spot to another without crossing the distance in
between. One particle can even affect another particle meters away
instantaneously. Weirdest of all, taking measurements of particles
can fundamentally change their behavior — so how do scientists even
know what they're talking about? Come learn the fundamental
difference between the quantum world and the classical, and discover
the principle methodology for probing particles.

Speaker: Ryan Nurmela, Director, QuantumCamp

============ =========

Wed. 2/17

SETI Institute Colloquium Series
515 N. Whisman Road, Mountain View

When: Wednesday, Feb. 17, 12:00 noon
Where: The SETI Institute, Arecibo Rm.

02/17/2010
Asteroseismology in the era of CoRoT and Kepler space missions
Conny Aerts, University of Leuven, Belgium

After a general introduction into the research field of
asteroseismology, we review the highlights achieved from multi-site
ground-based campaigns dedicated to carefully selected targets. We
show how asteroseismology has the potential to improve stellar
evolution models to a level that cannot be achieved by any other
method so far. Subsequently, we discuss several results from the
operational French-led European space mission CoRoT (Convection,
Rotation, planetary Transits) for various types of stars and
illustrate the immense advantage of having long-term uninterrupted
data from space with a factor 100 better precision compared to data
from the ground. Finally, we will highlight the next step expected in
this research, based on data assembled by the space mission Kepler
(NASA) which has been designed primarily for exoplanet hunting. This
mission, along with the future ESA PLATO satellite project, will
allow us to do asteroseismology of numerous exoplanet host stars.

============ =====

2/17-SF Amateur Astronomers meeting

Wednesday, February 17, 2010 – General Meeting
Randall Museum . 199 Museum Way . San Francisco
7:00 pm Doors Open
7:30 pm Announcements
8:00 pm Speaker
SFAA’s General Meetings take place on the 3rd Wednesday of each
month (except January)

APARNA VENKATESAN
Assistant Professor
Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of San Francisco
THE FIRST STARS IN THE UNIVERSE

I will present the role played by the first stars in
the ionization and metal enrichment of the early
universe. Primordial stellar objects are unique
objects that strongly influenced their environment
despite their brief existence. These objects can be
identified through their characteristic ionizing
properties and the elements created by their
supernovae. By combining these two signatures
with a variety of current astronomical data, we can
obtain relatively strong constraints on the masses
and formation epochs of the first stars. I will end
with a summary of the most
promising observational programs that will
detect primordial stellar clusters at cosmic ages of
less than a billion years.

____________ _________ ____

My research interests are primarily in theoretical cosmology,
including studies of the first stars and quasars in the
universe, the evolution of cosmic star formation and related
observational signatures, the physics and chemistry of gas in
the early universe, the cosmic microwave background, and dark
matter. I am currently working on the cosmic synthesis of
the biogenic elements at early times in the universe, and on projects
related to helium reionization and its effects on the
intergalactic medium and the duration of metal‐free star formation.

============ ========

Fri. 2/19

Foothill Community College
12345 Moody Rd.
Los Altos Hills

Foothill Observatory is open for public viewing every clear Friday
evening from 9:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. Visitors can view the wonders
of the universe through the observatory' s new computer-controlled 16-
inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope. Views of objects in our solar
system may include craters and mountains on the moon, the moons and
cloud-bands of Jupiter, the rings of Saturn, etc. The choice of
targets for any evening's viewing depends on the season and what
objects are currently in the sky.

On clear, dark, moonless nights, the telescopes give visitors views
into the deeper reaches of space. Star clusters, nebulae, and distant
galaxies provide dramatic demonstrations of the vastness of the cosmos.

The public viewing programs at Foothill are free of charge and are
open to guests of all ages. Please note that the observatory is
closed when the weather is cloudy. Also note that visitor parking
permits are available from the machines in the parking lots for $2.00.

Come to Foothill Observatory and join us in the exploration of our
Universe!

Foothill Observatory is located on the campus of Foothill College in
Los Altos Hills, CA. Take Highway 280 to the El Monte Rd exit. The
observatory is next to parking lot 4. Parking at the college requires
visitor parking permits that are available from the machines in the
parking lots for $2.00.

============ ========= =====

Sat. 2/20 10AM-12PM

Foothill Community College
12345 Moody Rd.
Los Altos Hills

Foothill College Observatory 10AM-12PM if it is clear
Solar observing with a Hydrogen alpha solar telescope every clear
Saturday morning. This allows spectacular views of solar prominences
and unusual surface features on the Sun not otherwise visible with
regular white light telescopes. Admission is free.

Foothill Observatory is located on the campus of Foothill College in
Los Altos Hills, CA. Take Highway 280 to the El Monte Rd exit. The
observatory is next to parking lot 4. Parking at the college requires
visitor parking permits that are available from the machines in the
parking lots for $2.00.

============ ========= ========= =

Fri.2/19 and Sat. 2/20

Chabot Space and Science Center
10000 Skyline Boulevard
Oakland, CA 94619-2450
(510) 336-7300

EXPLORE THE NIGHT SKIES AT THE CHABOT OBSERVATORIES
for more information:
http://www.chabotsp ace.org/

Free Telescope Viewing
Regular hours are every Friday & Saturday evening, weather permitting:
7:30pm - 10:30pm
Come for spectacular night sky viewing the best kept secret in the
Bay Area and see the magnificence of our telescopes in action!
DAytime Telescope Viewing
On Saturday and Sunday afternoons come view the sun, moon, or Venus
through Chabot's telescopes. Free with General Admission.
(weather permitting)
12pm - 5pm: Observatories Open

============ =========
Fri. 2/19 and Sat. 2/20
Chabot Space and Science Center-Don't miss the new Tales of the Maya
Skies!
10000 Skyline Boulevard
Oakland, CA 94619-2450
(510) 336-7300

Dinner, a Movie, and the Universe at Chabot Space Center
06:00 PM
Chabot Space and Science Center, Oakland
Join us for Chabot's unique evening social rendezvous.
Start your night off with dinner and drinks, then cozy up in the
planetarium as you're whisked to the edge of the universe and cap off
the evening with telescope viewing featuring breathtaking views of
the cosmos. Dinner: Buy advance tickets to ensure your dinner
reservation. Purchase dinner separately at the cafe ($15).

ADVANCED TICKETS
A Movie and the Universe: Admission to Chabot includes all access to
our interactive exhibitions, a film in the MegaDome theater AND a
show in the Digital Planetarium. Purchase your advanced tickets
online or call the Box Office at (510) 336-7373.
============ ========= =

Sat. 2/20 Lawrence Hall of Science, UC Berkeley

Saturday Night Stargazing: 1st and 3rd Saturday on the LHS Plaza
Special Event | February 6 – March 20, 2010 every other Saturday |
8-10 p.m. | Lawrence Hall of Science, Main Plaza

Sponsor: Lawrence Hall of Science (LHS)

See the Moon, Planets, Stars, Galaxies and More

* Stargaze through astronomical telescopes
* Ask questions and talk with amateur astronomers
* Learn how to use a star map to find constellations
* Share in the wonder of the universe with your friends

1st and 3rd CLEAR Saturday of every month throughout the year,
weather permitting

* 8:00–10:00 p.m. September 15–March 31
* 9:00–11:00 p.m. April 1–September 14

Saturday Night Stargazing is a free public viewing program sponsored
by LHS and Bay Area amateur astronomers. Stargazing is always weather
permitting—be sure to dress warmly. Foggy and overcast skies can
cancel stargazing at the last minute.

For more information, join the LHS Stargazing Google Group or follow
us on Twitter@LHSstargazi ng.

Target audience: All Audiences
Open to audience: All Audiences
Attendance restrictions: Stargazing is always weather permitting—be
sure to dress warmly. Foggy and overcast skies can cancel stargazing
at the last minute.

Mon. 2/1 7:30PM

Califronia Academy of Sciences, Morrison Planetarium
55 Music Concourse Dr.
San Francisco, CA 94118 USA

Adults $12, Seniors $10, Academy members $6

Dean Lecture - Cosmic Dawn: The First Star in the Universe

Supercomputer calculations reveal a universe unseen by our biggest 
and best telescopes-including the first luminous objects in the 
Universe!  These ultra-massive stars shone one million times as 
brightly as our sun, dying quickly and seeding the cosmos with the 
elements necessary for life.  Join Dr. Abel on a fascinating journey 
that uses the latest computer animations of early star formation, 
supernovae explosions, and the evolution of the first galaxies.

Speaker: Dr. Tom Abel, Stanford University

=======================

Wed. 2/3 Noon

SETI Institute Colloquium Series
515 N. Whisman Road, Mountain View

When: Wednesday, Feb. 3, 12:00 noon
Where: The SETI Institute, Arecibo Rm.

Primordial Ice Reservoirs of the Solar System

We now know that ice in the solar system resides in at least three 
distinct reservoirs, known as the Oort cloud, the Kuiper belt and the 
main-belt comets. Dr. Jewitt will discuss the nature, distribution 
and significance of the ice, highlighting its connection to the 
formation epoch, in a style intended to be sweeping and broadly 
accessible.

David Jewitt, Department of Earth & Space Sciences and Inst. Geophys. 
and Planetary Physics, UCLA

========================

Wed. 2/3 7:30PM

Stanford University
Cubberley Auditorium
485 Lasuen Mall
Stanford, CA 94305


Stanford Pioneers in Science: Nobel Laureate Douglas Osheroff


Douglas Osheroff began tinkering with the world of physics as a boy 
in the basement of his home in Aberdeen, Washington. At six, he 
disassembled his toys to get at their electric motors, later he blew 
a hole in two walls with a muzzle-loading rifle he built, and nearly 
blinded himself when a makeshift miner's lamp exploded. But by the 
time he was a senior in high school, he had constructed a 110 keV 
Xray machine, and everybody knew there was no stopping him. Osheroff 
went to CalTech as an undergraduate (where he enrolled in Richard 
Feynman's legendary two-year course on physics) and to Cornell as a 
graduate student, where in 1971 he and his colleagues discovered the 
superfluidity in helium-3. It was for this breakthrough that Osheroff 
shared the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1996.

Fascinated by the wonders of the low-temperature world, Osheroff 
decided to stay in solid state physics after receiving his PhD in 
1973, and took a research position at Bell Labs during what he calls 
its "golden era." Osheroff says, "I was drawn to low-temperature work 
because it was so counterintuitive. Who would ever expect a liquid to 
flow up and out of the top of a beaker?" During his fifteen years at 
Bell, Osheroff continued to probe the mysteries of the cold world, 
was awarded a MacArthur Fellowship in 1981, and was courted by 
numerous universities, finally accepting Stanford's offer to join the 
Physics department in 1987.

Osheroff is the recipient of numerous national and international 
awards, and is a member of the National Academy of Sciences and a 
Fellow of the American Physical Society and the American Academy of 
Arts and Sciences.

Doug Osheroff's work will be introduced by his distinguished 
colleague, Alexander Fetter, Professor of Physics, Emeritus, and 
former Director of both the Hansen Experimental Physics Laboratory 
and the Geballe Laboratory for Advanced Materials.

Speaker: Douglas Osheroff, J.G. Jackson and C.J. Wood Professor of 
Physics; Gerhard Casper University Fellow in Undergraduate Education

About Stanford Pioneers in Science:

Please join us this Winter as we continue the Stanford Pioneers in 
Science series. These events offer the public an opportunity to learn 
about the scientific contributions and lives of Stanford faculty 
members who have been awarded Nobel Prizes, National Medals of 
Science or Technology, and MacArthur Fellowships.

Each event consists of a presentation about the professional 
accomplishments of the featured scientist, an interview with the 
scientist, and QA with the audience.

This series is your chance to engage with some of the most 
consequential thinkers of our day-people who have helped to shape the 
scientific, technological, and economic fabric of our modern world.

The Stanford Pioneers in Science Series for the 2009-2010 year is 
sponsored by Stanford's Continuing Studies Program and by the 
Stanford Historical Society.

===================

Fri. 2/5 San Mateo Co. Astronomical Soc. mtg.

College of San Mateo
1700 W. Hillsdale Blvd.
San Mateo, CA 94402

near Hwy 92 and West Hillsdale Blvd.
The Planetarium is attached to Building 36, immediately adjacent to
parking lot 7. The ISC (Integrated Science Center), room 36-110, is
just across the breezeway from the Planetarium main entrance.

Here is a URL to a map:
http://www.smcas.com/events/directions/activities_at_csm/

SPEAKER:   Chris Ford
                       Business Director - RenderMan,   Pixar 
Animation Sudios
                                                                        
    ,
TOPIC:         CG Astronomical Visualization: From Hollywood, NASA, 
and Beyond

TIME:           7:30pm  Friday, February 5th
WHERE:      The CSM Planetarium  Free and open to the public


Witness the birth of the Moon, navigate through Saturn's rings, and 
take a trip on the Mars rover!

Join us for this visually-rich multimedia exploration through the 
universe as Chris Ford discusses the little realized but strong 
interplay between astronomical visualization and the evolution of 
computer graphics in feature film special effects.

The same technology used to create alien landscapes in Star Wars or 
Star Trek can just as easily be used to interpret real scientific 
data in a manner that both explains and entertains.   Today it is now 
possible to create astronomical simulations that are so photo-
realistic that it is possible to believe that you are "really 
there".   The same technology is also increasingly accessible to the 
interested amatuer astronomer, and to show this Chris will apply CG 
visualization techniques to create 3D stereoscopic astro-
photography.   His talk will be illustrated with state of the art 
example animations and visualizations from various documentaries, 
planetaria, IMAX, and his own work.

  Speaker Biography:
Chris Ford is currently RenderMan Business Director at Pixar 
Animation Studios with over 20 years experience in computer graphics 
(CG) software development, media production technology, product 
management and business development.

Prior to Pixar, Chris was Director of Product Management at Autodesk 
for all 3D entertainment software products between 2002 and 2005, and 
Senior Maya Product Manager at Alias (Silicon Graphics) between 1997 
and 2002 during which Maya was introduced to market, and through 
subsequent releases became established as the dominant 3D software 
product in digital media content creation.

Chris has managed most of the primary photo-realistic CG modeling, 
animation, and rendering software tools used in contemporary feature 
film special effects, animation, broadcast, and scientific 
visualization including the former Alias and Wavefront product 
families, Maya, 3ds max, and currently Pixar's RenderMan.


===============================

Fri. 2/5

Foothill Community College
12345 Moody Rd.
Los Altos Hills

Foothill Observatory is open for public viewing every clear Friday
evening from 9:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. Visitors can view the wonders
of the universe through the observatory's new computer-controlled 16-
inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope. Views of objects in our solar
system may include craters and mountains on the moon, the moons and
cloud-bands of Jupiter, the rings of Saturn, etc. The choice of
targets for any evening's viewing depends on the season and what
objects are currently in the sky.

On clear, dark, moonless nights, the telescopes give visitors views
into the deeper reaches of space. Star clusters, nebulae, and distant
galaxies provide dramatic demonstrations of the vastness of the cosmos.

The public viewing programs at Foothill are free of charge and are
open to guests of all ages. Please note that the observatory is
closed when the weather is cloudy. Also note that visitor parking
permits are available from the machines in the parking lots for $2.00.

Come to Foothill Observatory and join us in the exploration of our
Universe!

Foothill Observatory is located on the campus of Foothill College in
Los Altos Hills, CA. Take Highway 280 to the El Monte Rd exit. The
observatory is next to parking lot 4. Parking at the college requires
visitor parking permits that are available from the machines in the
parking lots for $2.00.

==========================

Sat. 2/6 10AM-12PM

Foothill Community College
12345 Moody Rd.
Los Altos Hills

Foothill College Observatory 10AM-12PM if it is clear
Solar observing with a Hydrogen alpha solar telescope every clear
Saturday morning. This allows spectacular views of solar prominences
and unusual surface features on the Sun not otherwise visible with
regular white light telescopes. Admission is free.

Foothill Observatory is located on the campus of Foothill College in
Los Altos Hills, CA. Take Highway 280 to the El Monte Rd exit. The
observatory is next to parking lot 4. Parking at the college requires
visitor parking permits that are available from the machines in the
parking lots for $2.00.

===============================

Fri.2/5 and Sat. 2/6

Chabot Space and Science Center
10000 Skyline Boulevard
Oakland, CA 94619-2450
(510) 336-7300

EXPLORE THE NIGHT SKIES AT THE CHABOT OBSERVATORIES
for more information:
http://www.chabotspace.org/

Free Telescope Viewing
Regular hours are every Friday & Saturday evening, weather permitting:
7:30pm - 10:30pm
Come for spectacular night sky viewing the best kept secret in the
Bay Area and see the magnificence of our telescopes in action!
DAytime Telescope Viewing
On Saturday and Sunday afternoons come view the sun, moon, or Venus
through Chabot's telescopes. Free with General Admission.
(weather permitting)
12pm - 5pm: Observatories Open

=====================
Fri. 2/5 and Sat. 2/6
Chabot Space and Science Center-Don't miss the new Tales of the Maya 
Skies!
10000 Skyline Boulevard
Oakland, CA 94619-2450
(510) 336-7300

Dinner, a Movie, and the Universe at Chabot Space Center
06:00 PM
Chabot Space and Science Center, Oakland
Join us for Chabot's unique evening social rendezvous.
Start your night off with dinner and drinks, then cozy up in the
planetarium as you're whisked to the edge of the universe and cap off
the evening with telescope viewing featuring breathtaking views of
the cosmos. Dinner: Buy advance tickets to ensure your dinner
reservation. Purchase dinner separately at the cafe ($15).

ADVANCED TICKETS
A Movie and the Universe: Admission to Chabot includes all access to
our interactive exhibitions, a film in the MegaDome theater AND a
show in the Digital Planetarium. Purchase your advanced tickets
online or call the Box Office at (510) 336-7373.
======================


Sat. 2/6-San Mateo Co. Astr. Soc. Star Party

Sat. 2/6-Star Parties At Crestview Park, San Carlos

Sunset: 05:38P

Star Parties At Crestview Park
Come out and bring the kids for a mind expanding look at the universe

The City of San Carlos Parks and Recreation Department and the San
Mateo County Astronomical Society has open Star Parties twice a
month. These events are held in Crestview Park, San Carlos California.

Sunset at 4:51PM Note that inclement weather
(clouds, excessive wind and showers) will cause the event to be
canceled without notice.

For more information call Bob Black, (650)592-2166, or send an email
to SMCAS@live.com or call Ed Pieret at (650)862-9602.

Reasons to Attend
If you have kids interested in space or planets bring them here for a
real life view of planets, nebula, star clusters and galaxies.
If you are thinking of buying a telescope or want help using a
telescope you own, come here to talk with experienced users.
If you think you might have an interest in astronomy come and talk to
experienced amateur astronomers.

Cautions
Dress warmly and wear a hat.
Visitors should park on the street and walk into the park so your
headlights don't affect the observer's dark adaptation.
Only park in the parking lot if you are arriving before dark and plan
to stay until the end of the event.
You shouldn't need lights but if you feel you do, only bring a small
flashlight with the lens covered using red cellophane or red balloon.
Please respect the telescopes and ask permission from the owner if
you wish to touch.
Parents, please watch your children.
The park is residential, and adjacent to homes and backyards, please
keep noise to a minimum.
Schedule
Time

Astronomers arrive to set up at around sunset. Observing starts at
about one hour after sunset and continues for two to three hours.

=======================

Sat. 2/6

Saturday Night Stargazing: 1st and 3rd Saturday on the LHS Plaza
Special Event | February 6 - March 20, 2010 every other Saturday | 
8-10 p.m. | Lawrence Hall of Science, Main Plaza

Sponsor: Lawrence Hall of Science (LHS)

See the Moon, Planets, Stars, Galaxies and More

* Stargaze through astronomical telescopes
* Ask questions and talk with amateur astronomers
* Learn how to use a star map to find constellations
* Share in the wonder of the universe with your friends

1st and 3rd CLEAR Saturday of every month throughout the year, 
weather permitting

* 8:00-10:00 p.m. September 15-March 31
* 9:00-11:00 p.m. April 1-September 14

Saturday Night Stargazing is a free public viewing program sponsored 
by LHS and Bay Area amateur astronomers. Stargazing is always weather 
permitting-be sure to dress warmly. Foggy and overcast skies can 
cancel stargazing at the last minute.

For more information, join the LHS Stargazing Google Group or follow 
us on Twitter@LHSstargazing.

Target audience: All Audiences
Open to audience: All Audiences
Attendance restrictions: Stargazing is always weather permitting-be 
sure to dress warmly. Foggy and overcast skies can cancel stargazing 
at the last minute.
=====================

Wed. 2/10

SETI Institute Colloquium Series
515 N. Whisman Road, Mountain View

When: Wednesday, Feb. 10, 12:00 noon
Where: The SETI Institute, Arecibo Rm.

Observing String Multiverse with Astrophysical Black Holes

One of the most intriguing and controversial recent ideas in 
cosmology and string theory is that the Universe is highly 
inhomogeneous on the length scales much longer than its currently 
observable part, with many of the fundamental 'constants' of Nature 
varying on the ultra-long length scales. Our location in this cosmic 
landscape is to a large extent determined by requiring that the local 
particle physics parameters should allow for life to develop. Dr. 
Dubovsky will review the origin of these ideas and explain how they 
can be supported by the near future observations of astrophysical 
black holes.
Sergei Dubovsky, Stanford University Institute For Theoretical Physics

===================


Fri 2/12-Peninsula Astronomical Society meeting

Foothill Community College
Peninsula Astronomical Society Meeting 7:30PM
Foothill Community College
12345 Moody Rd.
Los Altos Hills
Rm 8402, Bldg. 8400 next to Parking Lot#8 near the entrance to the
College. Parking is $2.00

The Lives of Stars with Dr. Ken Croswell

The stars that speckle the sky have long fascinated humanity, but 
only in the past century have astronomers figured out how stars are 
born, live, and die. Now we can use this knowledge to address the 
question: Which stars near the Sun might have planets with 
intelligent life? Drawing on both the laws of stellar evolution and 
the latest discoveries of extrasolar planets, Harvard-trained 
astronomer Dr. Ken Croswell describes the lives of stars and the 
alien worlds they may support.

Dr. Ken Croswell earned his Ph.D. in astronomy at Harvard University 
and is the author of eight astronomy books, including Magnificent 
Universe, Ten Worlds, and The Lives of Stars.

=============================
Fri. 2/12

Foothill Community College
12345 Moody Rd.
Los Altos Hills

Foothill Observatory is open for public viewing every clear Friday
evening from 9:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. Visitors can view the wonders
of the universe through the observatory's new computer-controlled 16-
inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope. Views of objects in our solar
system may include craters and mountains on the moon, the moons and
cloud-bands of Jupiter, the rings of Saturn, etc. The choice of
targets for any evening's viewing depends on the season and what
objects are currently in the sky.

On clear, dark, moonless nights, the telescopes give visitors views
into the deeper reaches of space. Star clusters, nebulae, and distant
galaxies provide dramatic demonstrations of the vastness of the cosmos.

The public viewing programs at Foothill are free of charge and are
open to guests of all ages. Please note that the observatory is
closed when the weather is cloudy. Also note that visitor parking
permits are available from the machines in the parking lots for $2.00.

Come to Foothill Observatory and join us in the exploration of our
Universe!

Foothill Observatory is located on the campus of Foothill College in
Los Altos Hills, CA. Take Highway 280 to the El Monte Rd exit. The
observatory is next to parking lot 4. Parking at the college requires
visitor parking permits that are available from the machines in the
parking lots for $2.00.

==========================

Sat. 2/13 10AM-12PM

Foothill Community College
12345 Moody Rd.
Los Altos Hills

Foothill College Observatory 10AM-12PM if it is clear
Solar observing with a Hydrogen alpha solar telescope every clear
Saturday morning. This allows spectacular views of solar prominences
and unusual surface features on the Sun not otherwise visible with
regular white light telescopes. Admission is free.

Foothill Observatory is located on the campus of Foothill College in
Los Altos Hills, CA. Take Highway 280 to the El Monte Rd exit. The
observatory is next to parking lot 4. Parking at the college requires
visitor parking permits that are available from the machines in the
parking lots for $2.00.

===============================

Fri.2/12 and Sat. 2/13

Chabot Space and Science Center
10000 Skyline Boulevard
Oakland, CA 94619-2450
(510) 336-7300

EXPLORE THE NIGHT SKIES AT THE CHABOT OBSERVATORIES
for more information:
http://www.chabotspace.org/

Free Telescope Viewing
Regular hours are every Friday & Saturday evening, weather permitting:
7:30pm - 10:30pm
Come for spectacular night sky viewing the best kept secret in the
Bay Area and see the magnificence of our telescopes in action!
DAytime Telescope Viewing
On Saturday and Sunday afternoons come view the sun, moon, or Venus
through Chabot's telescopes. Free with General Admission.
(weather permitting)
12pm - 5pm: Observatories Open

=====================
Fri. 2/12 and Sat. 2/13
Chabot Space and Science Center-Don't miss the new Tales of the Maya 
Skies!
10000 Skyline Boulevard
Oakland, CA 94619-2450
(510) 336-7300

Dinner, a Movie, and the Universe at Chabot Space Center
06:00 PM
Chabot Space and Science Center, Oakland
Join us for Chabot's unique evening social rendezvous.
Start your night off with dinner and drinks, then cozy up in the
planetarium as you're whisked to the edge of the universe and cap off
the evening with telescope viewing featuring breathtaking views of
the cosmos. Dinner: Buy advance tickets to ensure your dinner
reservation. Purchase dinner separately at the cafe ($15).

ADVANCED TICKETS
A Movie and the Universe: Admission to Chabot includes all access to
our interactive exhibitions, a film in the MegaDome theater AND a
show in the Digital Planetarium. Purchase your advanced tickets
online or call the Box Office at (510) 336-7373.
======================

2/13 and 14

Chabot Space and Science Center
10000 Skyline Blvd
Oakland, CA 94619 USA


Valentine's Day Love Missions


TAKE A ROMANTIC VOYAGE
February 13 (1:30pm & 3:30pm)
February 14 (1:30pm & 3:30pm)


Celebrate with your Valentine on a simulated space mission to the Red 
Planet. This package includes an all access pass to the Center, 
chocolates, fizzy Martian beverage, and a souvenir of your trip.

Guests: $85 Per Couple

Members: $80 Per Couple


Email: info@chabotspace.org or call (510) 336-7300 for reservations

====================


Sat. 2/13-San Mateo Co. Astr. Soc. Star Party

Sat. 2/13-Star Parties At Crestview Park, San Carlos

Sunset: 05:46P

Star Parties At Crestview Park
Come out and bring the kids for a mind expanding look at the universe

The City of San Carlos Parks and Recreation Department and the San
Mateo County Astronomical Society has open Star Parties twice a
month. These events are held in Crestview Park, San Carlos California.

Sunset at 4:51PM Note that inclement weather
(clouds, excessive wind and showers) will cause the event to be
canceled without notice.

For more information call Bob Black, (650)592-2166, or send an email
to SMCAS@live.com or call Ed Pieret at (650)862-9602.

Reasons to Attend
If you have kids interested in space or planets bring them here for a
real life view of planets, nebula, star clusters and galaxies.
If you are thinking of buying a telescope or want help using a
telescope you own, come here to talk with experienced users.
If you think you might have an interest in astronomy come and talk to
experienced amateur astronomers.

Cautions
Dress warmly and wear a hat.
Visitors should park on the street and walk into the park so your
headlights don't affect the observer's dark adaptation.
Only park in the parking lot if you are arriving before dark and plan
to stay until the end of the event.
You shouldn't need lights but if you feel you do, only bring a small
flashlight with the lens covered using red cellophane or red balloon.
Please respect the telescopes and ask permission from the owner if
you wish to touch.
Parents, please watch your children.
The park is residential, and adjacent to homes and backyards, please
keep noise to a minimum.
Schedule
Time

Astronomers arrive to set up at around sunset. Observing starts at
about one hour after sunset and continues for two to three hours.