Caltech will host a free public lecture and stargazing event Friday, Oct. 3 featuring research scientist Joe Masiero of Caltech’s Infrared Processing and Analysis Center (IPAC), who will discuss the detection and risks of near-Earth objects (NEOs).
The event begins at 8:00 p.m. at the Cahill Center for Astronomy and Astrophysics as part of Caltech’s Stargazing Lecture Series. Masiero’s talk, titled “Searching for Near Earth Objects,” will explain how astronomers find and study asteroids and comets that orbit close to Earth, their origins in the early Solar System, and the potential threat they pose through collision. He will also preview next-generation telescopes designed to improve NEO tracking and research.
The lecture will last approximately 45 minutes, followed by a panel of astronomers who will answer questions from attendees. A guided stargazing session with telescopes will take place from 8:45 to 9:45 p.m., weather permitting. The lecture and Q&A will proceed regardless of conditions and will be streamed live on YouTube for remote viewers.
The Stargazing Lecture Series is intended for a general audience and does not require reservations. Events typically include telescope viewing and opportunities to engage with Caltech scientists. For weather updates, directions, and additional details, visit outreach.astro.caltech.
The series is sponsored by Caltech Astronomy Outreach. For more information, contact Cameron Hummels at chummels@caltech.edu.
