The Department of Physics and Astrophysics’ Astronomy Public Talks proceeded with presenter Robert Moore’s, the Department’s general physical lab supervisor, lecture about different types of variable stars. Last Monday evening, the presentation concluded with attendees observing the sky through a telescope outside of Witmer Hall. 

Since the fall of 2007, these lectures have been hosted by the Department of Physics and Astrophysics’ Dr. Wayne Barkhouse, a professor at the University of North Dakota. 

“I have been organizing and giving talks at this public forum since that time,” Barkhouse said. 

During the academic year, these astronomy presentations are held three times a semester. In total, there have been 43. 

“The purpose of these lectures is to share our love and passion for astronomy and astrophysics,” Barkhouse said. “To showcase our connection with the cosmos and to inspire the next generation to be excited about science.” 

At the “Star Light, Star Bright” lecture, the title of Moore’s presentation, Moore discussed the different variable stars: cataclysmic, occulting, eclipsing minors, pulsating, delta scuti, and more. 

“[Moore] presented an interesting fact that all stars are variable,” Barkhouse said. “This means that the brightness of stars changes with time. Even though for some stars, it is very mild. This also includes our own star, the sun.” 

Moore notes his favorite type of star. 

“My favorite of these types of stars is the delta sucti,” Moore said. “Over the course of one night, you can get a whole period. You don’t have to wait several nights to build it up.” 

The Astronomy Public Talks are developed for people who may not know much about astronomy. After the lecture, there is a question-and-answer session to explore further topics in the presentation. 

“This is a perfect venue to learn more about astronomy,” Barkhouse said. “Following each talk, if the weather cooperates, we have a telescope available for people to look at the night sky.” 

On Monday, Apr. 7, at 8 p.m., the next Astronomy Public Talk will be held at Witmer Hall, room 114. 

“I hope that people will gain a better appreciation of the wondrous objects that are found in our universe,” Barkhouse said. 

Dylan Campbell is a Dakota Student Section Editor. He can be reached at dylan.campbell@und.edu.