Class Platform: Virtual Learning

Day/Time: Thursday, 1:30 - 2:30 PM, February 4 - April 15, *10 week class*

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Class Description: For two decades, the Hubble Space Telescope has been amassing discoveries that rival those of history’s greatest scientists and explorers. Hubble is arguably the most important and productive scientific instrument ever built. Although it never ventures beyond low-Earth orbit, Hubble’s location high above the blurring effects of the atmosphere gives it an unrivaled vantage point for investigating phenomena throughout the cosmos. Examine Hubble’s design and structure, and learn how small flaws can cause big problems. Uncover the mysteries of fascinating nebulae, including the Cat’s Eye Nebula and the Crab Nebula. Trace galaxies near and far, including the Sombrero Galaxy and the Antennae Galaxy. We will assess Hubble’s accomplishments by studying a carefully chosen sample of its landmark images in a visual feast that includes many of the greatest discoveries in astronomy during the 1990s and 2000s.

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Instructor Biographies: Elena Cieslak is retired from Purdue University where she worked as a family nutrition advisor. Prior to that she taught and worked as a medical assistant with a degree from Sawyer College. Cieslak has more than 20 years’ experience in adult education and loves being in the classroom. Cieslak’s love for art began as a small child and she is completely self-taught. Her work hangs regularly in Henderson City Hall. She is a member of City Lights Gallery in Henderson and displays and sells her work whenever possible.