Why the University of Utah’s Astronomy Programs Are Essential for Future Innovators

I recently read an article by Jason Swensen about funding changes at Utah’s colleges. It got me thinking about how these shifts could affect important programs. One program I hope stays funded is the University of Utah’s astronomy outreach.

Every Wednesday night, when the sky is clear, people gather on the roof of the South Physics Building to look through impressive telescopes. Soon, these sessions will move to the new L.S. Skaggs Applied Science Building. This outreach has really enriched my life.

Back in the early ’70s, my wife and I viewed Saturn through one of those telescopes. I’ll never forget that stunning sight—the rings and the vibrant colors against the dark sky. That moment deepened my love for astronomy, which had already begun after witnessing a total solar eclipse.

I worked at the Deseret News for 38 years, mostly as a science writer, and astronomy was my favorite subject. Even now, I run an astronomy blog and serve on the Clark Planetarium Advisory Committee. My passion led me to start the Utah Astronomy Club, which has over 2,130 members on Facebook. Our community is energetic, with about 800 active users daily and numerous discussions happening each month.

The monthly meetings of our club, previously held at the South Physics Building, will also move to the Skaggs Applied Science Building. These meetings are free and open to everyone. Paul Ricketts leads both the telescope sessions and our club meetings, sharing his vast knowledge.

Recently, we’ve enjoyed talks from various experts. Professor Charles Jui, beloved by my son as a teacher, shared valuable insights. Ragadeepika Pucha, a postdoctoral researcher, presented groundbreaking findings on black holes. We also welcomed local resident Melissa Calwell, who showcased stunning videos of auroras. The list of speakers keeps growing, enriching our understanding of the universe.

While the scientific value of astronomy is clear, its psychological and spiritual benefits are often overlooked. Looking into the night sky connects us to a larger universe and inspires wonder. This outreach effort fosters curiosity and insight, benefiting many in ways we might not fully understand yet.

Exploring the cosmos, whether through a telescope or discussions at our club, opens doors to new ideas and experiences. It’s a journey worth supporting.



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