Are excuses for academic parties getting thinner or is it just me?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the innovative use of disco balls for astronomical observations, particularly during a full moon on December 7, 2022, and in a university observatory exhibition from March to May 2023. The participants highlight the effectiveness of commercial disco balls in safely projecting solar images, despite challenges in observing sunspots. The conversation also touches on the potential for using disco balls to observe lunar and other bright astronomical phenomena, suggesting a playful yet educational approach to astronomy.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic astronomical observation techniques
  • Familiarity with solar projection methods
  • Knowledge of optics related to light reflection and projection
  • Experience with educational exhibition setups in observatories
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of solar projection using reflective surfaces
  • Explore the optics of disco balls and their applications in education
  • Investigate methods for observing lunar phases and eclipses
  • Learn about innovative educational tools in astronomy, such as interactive exhibits
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy educators, science communicators, and anyone interested in creative methods for teaching astronomical concepts and engaging audiences in observational activities.

sbrothy
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(arXiv, physics.ed-ph): Why every observatory needs a disco ball

"We tried on a number of occasions to observe different phases of the Moon using disco balls. We were successful with the full moon on 2022 December 7 [...]"

"During the period March-May 2023 we tested a portable disco ball as part of a permanent exhibition at a university observatory, receiving visitors in groups of all ages. [...]"

I mean: just send out invites like normal people darn it! :P

(Sorry for the thin joke. If nothing else the paper gets a little publicity. Whether that's merited I'll leave to you to decide.)

EDIT: Oh, this should of course have gone in the "Lame Jokes" thread. Feel free to move it. My bad.
 
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Science news on Phys.org
Commercial disco balls provide a safe, effective and instructive way of observing the Sun. We explore the optics of solar projections with disco balls, and find that while sunspot observations are challenging, the solar disk and its changes during eclipses are easy and fun to observe. We explore the disco ball's potential for observing the moon and other bright astronomical phenomena.
A clever topic and well if not completely serious, I agree, a little light publicity on the subject may not be a bad thing.
 
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Coming soon: The benefits of jukeboxes and roller skates for teaching sound transmission and classical mechanics
 
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