From Starlight to Insight: Exploring the Role of Mass and Fusion in Stars 
Sat. October 25  10:00 am - 2:30 pm
Strong Hall Room L014, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti

Use authentic color and magnitude data to discover how the physical properties of stars like the Sun result from their initial mass and fusion rate. Then use models derived from these relationships to estimate star distances and ages. Participants will use activities from Rubin Observatory’s Stellar Safari investigation. 

This workshop is ideal for anyone who teaches introductory astronomy concepts at the secondary school or college level. It is also a great fit for pre-service science teachers, Science Olympiad coaches and informal educators who are looking for data-based activities. An electronic certificate of participation for 4 hours of professional development is available upon request.

Morning refreshments and lunch are provided.

Workshop schedule:

• Introduction to Rubin Observatory and Stellar Safari classroom activity
  
• Lunch
  
• Conclude Stellar Safari activity
  
• Brief tour of EMU Sherzer Observatory and the EMU Planetarium 

Please direct all questions to Ardis Herrold,  ardis.herrold@noirlab.edu

This workshop is jointly sponsored by the Michigan Earth Science Teachers Association, Eastern Michigan University Dept. of Physics and Astronomy, and the NSF–DOE Vera C. Rubin Observatory.

Note: Campus parking is available at a rate of $2.25/ hour.
Workshop registration fee $10

Register by October 23

Sinkhole Science: Engaging Place & Problem Based Lessons

When:   Saturday, May 2, 2026 

Where:  Alpena, Michigan

Catch student interest with lessons related to Michigan sinkholes.

During this workshop you will tour a sinkhole, learn about their unique ecosystems, participate in a problem-based engineering activity, and take away activities to address a number of Michigan educational standards.

Included will be demonstrations of ground penetrating radar, models of groundwater and sinkholes, differences in rock properties, and a variety of educational resources.

Questions to Dave  Chapman at: chapmad@comcast.net

Priority will be given to teachers in northeastern lower penisula of Michigan, though others can participate. Limited to 30 teachers. 

This is a joint project of the Michigan Earth Science Teachers Association and the Northeast Michigan Great Lakes Stewardship Initiative.

Additional support from the Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary, Lake Superior State University Geology Department, the Michigan Karst Conservancy, the American Cave Conservation Association, and the Michigan Geological Repository for Research & Education.

Watch here for registration information.