What we do

If you're curious about our incredible Universe, or just want to find out what it's like to look through a telescope, visit one of our starparties, It's very enjoyable looking at objects in the Milky Way and beyond through a good telescope.

For casual observing, we use lasers that seem to reach the stars to help guide the way.

We can also arrange to bring our equipment and hands-on activities to your group or association, or arrange for an interesting presentation.

Email your request to: TheNorthwoodsExplorers@gmail.com

There are many research projects available for students of all ages. Most of the activities are involved with categorizing or identifying data, such as the shape of galaxies, or the size of craters on the moon. Every activity help scientists with their research and discoveries.

https://science.nasa.gov/citizenscience

https://www.zooniverse.org/projects?discipline=astronomy

Some of our members enjoy learning how to improve their observing skills through imaging, using specialized cameras and telescopes. It can be very rewarding to discover how to incorporate the many tools available to produce an accurate image of our Universe in amazing detail.

Another field of study that advances our knowledge and benefits professional astronomers is variable star observing. See The American Association of Variable Star Observers (AAVSO).

Radio Astronomy is another field where amateurs can contribute. See the Society of Amateur Radio Astronomers

Video astronomy is another way to observe the sky. Celestial objects are viewed on a video screen instead of looking through the eyepiece in the telescope. Our eyes operate in real-time. What we see is what's happening right now. When looking at celestial objects that are many light years distant, they appear very dim. The color sensors in our eyes are not sensitive enough to see color when there isn't enough light.

When using a video system, the photons are summed, sensitivity is increased, allowing some objects to be seen in color.

Using a video screen also helps to point out certain features of what we're observing in a group setting. It is also beneficial for those that have difficulty looking though the eyepiece.

To view a community of active video astronomers, visit this site: https://www.liveskies.org/

We can arrange for a starparty or presentation at your school or facility. We use scientist-tested hands-on activities that are best suited for your age group. From discovering the scale of our solar system and the Milky Way, to learning about our closet star, our Sun, there are many programs to choose from. We can cover most of what is available at the The Night Sky Network. Browse the database here:

https://nightsky.jpl.nasa.gov/download-search.cfm

If you would like to request a starparty or presentation for your group send an email to the address below.

Northwoods Explorers Membership Program

Member benefits include discounts on Astronomy and Sky & Telescope Magazines, members-only fix-it and how-to starparties, ability to borrow telescopes, eyepieces, and video cameras to try out, as well as opportunities to help with outreach and other programs, including Aurora viewing on top of Squirrel Hill, and membership in the Astronomical League. Membership dues help support this website and many of our activities that provide the opportunity for the public to view and enjoy the beautiful Universe they live in, and to enrich the experiences for students so they could appreciate how exciting it is to explore the unknown and contribute to the general body of knowledge. All of our operations are managed by volunteers, join our team today!

For more information click the "Membership" button above or here.