Learn About the Solar Eclipse Before it Happens

A Partial Eclipse of the Sun Coming October 23 making now the perfect time to take “Astronomy without Tears” at Foothill College.

In the afternoon of Thursday, October 23, 2014, the Bay Area will be treated to a partial eclipse of the sun, when the moon covers up part of our star. This cover-up can be viewed safely with free or very inexpensive techniques. Never stare directly at the sun without proper protection!

Foothill College is pleased to offer Astronomy 10B (often nicknamed “Astronomy without Tears”) – an introduction to the sun, the stars, the galaxies, and the “big bang” universe. There will also be a focus on the exciting new planets being discovered around other stars. (Despite the B in its name, this is a FIRST class in astronomy, and does not require any math or science background.)

The class is offered during the day and the evening, and is taken by students from age 16 to 80. You do not need to be a full-time student to attend; members of the community are welcome to register.

The instructor, Andrew Fraknoi, was named the California Professor of the Year in 2007, in recognition of his ability to explain scientific concepts in everyday language and with a sense of humor. He is often heard on Bay Area radio programs when astronomical events are in the news.

The evening Astronomy 10B is offered Tuesday and Thursday, from 6 to 8:20 pm. The day course is offered Mon, Tues, and Thur, at noon. An associated astronomy lab course is also available. Classes start September 22 or 23.

For more information about the Foothill College astronomy program and instructor, see: http://www.foothill.edu/ast

To register for classes at Foothill, start at: http://www.foothill.edu/admissions.php