New Mexico State University’s Tombaugh Observatory welcomed a crowd of students, faculty, and community members to its open house on Jan. 28, featuring a captivating presentation on supernovae by Stephanie Monty, a guest astronomer. The event was part of NMSU’s ongoing efforts to engage the public in scientific exploration and foster interest in the cosmos.
The open house served as a platform for NMSU’s astronomy community to come together. The event encouraged curiosity and sparked meaningful conversations among astronomy enthusiasts.
“These monthly events are really for the community,” Kristen Finlator said. “It’s great to see non-astronomy people marvel at our telescopes and the views they get from them.”
The observatory’s open house also provided an opportunity for both experienced astronomy students and curious community members to explore the universe. The event began with Dr. Monty’s presentation, which offered an engaging look into the phenomena of supernovae. Discussing their role in the creation of elements and their lasting impact on the universe’s evolution.
Monty took center stage to share her expertise on the explosive deaths of massive stars. Her talk covered the mechanics behind supernovae, their different types, and their significant impact on the universe’s structure. She emphasized how understanding these stellar explosions is crucial for scientists who aim to piece together the universe’s history.
“Supernovae are the universe’s way of recycling,” Monty said. “When a star dies, it creates the building blocks for everything, including the elements that make up our planet and ourselves.”
For many students, the presentation offered a deeper understanding of stellar processes.
“I’ve always been fascinated by supernovae, but hearing her explain how they shape the elements really puts things into perspective,” one student said.
After the lecture, attendees had the chance to peer through the observatory’s powerful telescopes, offering views of Mars and clusters of stars. The observatory staff assisted attendees in navigating the telescopes, providing expert insights and guiding the public through the night sky. Another guest reflected on the experience.
“Seeing the stars through these telescopes is incredible,” he said. “It’s one thing to read about it in textbooks, but looking through
the telescope and seeing it for yourself is a whole different experience.”
The evening also featured a live Question & Answer session with Monty, allowing attendees to ask more in-depth questions about supernovae and her research. Many took advantage of the opportunity to discuss their interests in astronomy.
As the evening ended, Dr. Monty encouraged attendees to continue their passion for astronomy.
“If astronomy makes you feel joy and wonder and inspires you, then pursue it,” Monty said. “You’ll learn so many amazing things along the way.”
