Adam Block, Astrophotographer by Marilyn Moore

Adam Block, Astrophotographer

The Mount Lemmon SkyCenter

June 13, 2013

Rotarians enjoyed meeting and hearing Mr. Adam Block, an Astrophotographer, who is the Program Coordinator and Primary Speaker for the UA Science SkyCenter at Mount Lemmon. 

Adam introduced himself by explaining his own interest, from childhood on, that inspired his love of astronomy, his education destination (the University of Arizona), and his successful career.  He program focused on helping us learn more about the phenomenal resources and programs of the SkyCenter. 

The mission of the SkyCenter:  To engage people of all ages in the process of scientific exploration by using the local "Sky Island" environment to merge a wide variety of science and engineering disciplines, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of our Earth within the Universe.

At approximately 9000 feet, the SkyCenter is in a perfect location – a protected, clear view in a ‘dark sky’ setting, optimum for studying the universe with an excellent telescope and other supporting instrumentation.  Featuring a primary mirror 32 inches in diameter, the new Schulman Telescope (installed, 2010) forms the centerpiece of the SkyCenter's successful public outreach programs, drawing visitors from all over the country to the clear skies atop Mt. Lemmon.

“The stargazing programs are conducted most nights of the year, and are weather dependent.  These are five-hour programs that include a light meal and access to the universe rarely experienced by most individuals.  The beauty of this Tucson educational experience is that it is in a comfortable setting, easy to understand and fun for all ages!  Starting times vary throughout the year.” 

Adam is an excellent speaker who added several important (and phenomenal) facts to his presentation.  To compare limitations of equipment for astronomy with the accomplishment of scientific practice, he illustrated how sketches of scientists of the 1800s actually paralleled what scientists verified in a much later period in history.  He explained about the differences in photo results (especially, color) that are based upon the camera settings (determined and set by scientists).  He illustrated this by comparing photos taken by an earth-bound telescope with those taken by the Hubble Space Telescope. 

We are fortunate that Adam Block is associated with this Tucson resource, that he is such an excellent speaker, and that he made this first visit to SaddleBrooke!

Resources to Enjoy

http://skycenter.arizona.edu/
The University of Arizona: UA Science SkyCenter
To learn more about, and to plan a visit to, the largest dedicated public telescope in the Southwest at the Mount Lemmon SkyCenter.
520-626-8122

http://apod.nasa.gov/apod/astropix.html
Astronomy Picture of the Day
Discover the cosmos! Each day a different image or photograph of our fascinating universe is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional astronomer.

http://mstecker.com/pages/appblock.htm
Adam Block – biography and contact information.
To learn more about Adam’s work; this site includes references to his published work.