A Cosmic Chat with Dr. Scott Fisher: Updates on Astronomy in Oregon

In this chapter of his ongoing series of Worthy lectures, Dr. Scott Fisher will speak about a mix of current astronomy happenings, updating us on outreach and research specifically in Central Oregon.

Given the fast pace at which modern astronomy is moving, Dr. Fisher will weave together a tale about several active topics including planetary formation and planets around other stars with photographs and videos from observatories like the James Webb Space Telescope and our own Pine Mountain Observatory.

But don't be intimidated! This is a public-level talk with ample opportunity to ask questions along the way and a chance to "stump the astronomer" for those who'd like to try. So think up some questions and bring them to the talk!

Dr. Scott Fisher is a faculty member in the University of Oregon Department of Physics where he teaches introductory-level astronomy courses and serves as the Director for Undergraduate Studies for the department. Scott is the Director of Pine Mountain Observatory, which is located about 30 miles east of Bend, OR in an area with some of the darkest skies left in the continental US. Scott previously worked at the National Science Foundation in Washington, DC where he was responsible for selecting and funding astronomy programs across the United States. Before his time in Washington, Scott was based in Hilo, Hawaii where he worked as a staff scientist of the Gemini Observatory. At Gemini, he worked as an instrument scientist and as a member of the Gemini Outreach team.

In addition to his love of astronomy, Scott is an amateur photographer and a Geocacher. When he is not observing, he can often be found in Las Vegas, Atlantic City, or anywhere with nightlife full of bright neon lights, poker cards, and casino chips!

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