The Last Stargazers - With Emily Levesque

Explore the evolving world of professional astronomy in this captivating 56-minute talk by Emily Levesque. Delve into the unique experiences of astronomers as they travel to remote locations, operate multi-million dollar equipment, and face the challenges of a field increasingly dominated by robotics. Learn about the history of astronomical observations, from eyepieces and photographic plates to digital imaging and radio telescopes. Discover fascinating anecdotes about unexpected adventures, including encounters with wildlife and natural disasters. Examine the impact of technological advancements on astronomical research, including the development of the Vera C. Rubin Observatory and its potential for groundbreaking discoveries. Reflect on the importance of human ingenuity, serendipity, and wonder in scientific exploration as the field transitions towards more automated methods of data collection and analysis.