Recently TJ has added another ingredient to its eclectic club sandwich, providing flavor for intellectuals and stargazers.
TJ's new Astronomy Club brings out the night owls in hopes to expand knowledge in Astronomy. Artwork by Mia Nogueira
In an effort to create a place for more complex ideas and a unique atmosphere, science teacher Nelson Vore, and seniors Luke DeGregori and Steven Vlajic introduced the Astronomy Club, a place to explore interests in the cosmos.
The astronomy club is not just for those who have knowledge of astronomy, but for anyone who is interested in learning about it, as well. “Anyone is welcome to join. If you are interested in learning about what’s out there and beyond the Earth, you can learn that here,” said Vlajic, who started the club because of his own interest in space studies.
The club will be meeting at least once each month at Observatory Park, which is located near the DU area, where there is a cylinder-shaped building with large telescopes inside of it. The building is an official scientific lab used by researchers. The Denver Astronomical Society sets up time to meet with the group to educate them on the topics desired. “When I was seven I visited Observatory Park with my parents for the first time. It instantly sparked a passion for astronomy in me. It was really fascinating to talk to the Nobel Laureates,” said DeGregori. A Nobel Laureate is someone who has been awarded a Nobel Prize, an award that is given annually for outstanding achievements.
Vore has lent one of his own telescopes to the club. “It is exciting that we don’t have to supply ourselves with our own telescopes. The times we have used Vore’s scope have been amazing; it allows us to take clear pictures of the moon and stars,” said Jessica Sergeant, who is a new member of the club. All club members say they are excited to make more trips outside of school. Places found on their agenda are Lookout Mountain and a camping trip.
“This is just something fun for students to do outside of school. There are free telescopes that we get to use at Observatory Park, and it is a great way to gain new knowledge,” said DeGregori, who started the club out of an impulse of curiosity, which was sparked while reading a science magazine. DeGregori feels that the club is a unique addition to TJ, that will promote more abstract thinking in which everyone can participate.
For the month of November the club’s main focus will be meteor showers; South Taurids on the 5th, North Taurids on the 12th, and Leonids on the 17th and 18th.
Anyone who is interested in joining the club or would like more information contact Luke DeGregori at lucasmaximus93@gmail.com or visit Mr. Vore in room 118.
