Young Astronomers Explore Space

Ever wondered what it’s like to explore the night sky like a real astronomer? In this episode of the WAB Podcast, we take a journey beyond the stars with the WAB Astronomy Club! Joining us were Kamil Rudolf, Middle School Science teacher, and three Grade 7 students—Helge, Wout, and Valentin.

From hands-on telescope observations to building their own space probes, our students are exploring planets, stars, and other mysteries in the universe. They shared their recent discoveries, perspectives, and learnings about the night sky. 

Kamil shared that club members usually gather every Monday afterschool, and start their space exploration by watching documentaries, training on how to use telescopes, and planning their next observation based on the weather conditions. On clear nights, they head to a building rooftop and use a computerized telescope to observe planets like Jupiter, Saturn, Mars, Venus, as well as distant stars. 

Kamil explained that students learn to calibrate and align the telescope, mastering the tools needed for independent exploration of the night sky. This hands-on experience deepens their understanding of celestial knowledge and observational techniques.

What have these young astronomers discovered? Helge learned that Saturn's and Uranus's rings are made of different types of ice, rather than rock. Even more intriguing, Uranus’s rings contain ice unlike anything known on Earth. He also built a probe designed to land on Venus, complete with parachutes to protect the rover.

His peer Wout, also captivated by Saturn, learned that the planet once had a large moon that drifted too close, breaking apart to form its current rings. 

Valentin was particularly excited about their lunar observations. He described watching the red moon rise on the horizon, changing from red to yellow to white due to atmospheric effects. He also discovered that the nearest potentially habitable solar system is only four light-years away. 

The club has also sparked connections to the students' other interests and future goals. Helge and Wout, both fascinated by aviation and military vehicles, see space exploration as an extension of their passion. Valentin dreams of starting an astronomy business or hosting a podcast to share his love for physics and astronomy.  

Kamil also highlighted how astronomy ties into their middle school science curriculum, particularly in studying the moon's phases and movements. By collecting data on the moon's location, phase, and direction, students develop a deeper understanding of lunar cycles.  

Want to hear these discoveries firsthand? Tune in to the latest WAB Podcast episode and embark on a cosmic journey with our young astronomers!