How Does Astronomy Help?

The sight of the night sky awash in countless stars stirs awe and wonder, and provokes big questions about our place in the universe. Astronomy helps to answer those questions, and it can also provide a gateway into other science disciplines. It is an important tool for developing critical thinking skills, and it is often a child’s first connection to science.

Astronomy is a science that studies everything that originates outside the Earth’s atmosphere, including celestial objects like planets, moons, and stars, as well as their motion through space, and the overall evolution of the cosmos. It encompasses all aspects of physics, chemistry, and mathematics in order to understand these objects and the processes that influence them.

It is one of the oldest sciences, with some of the earliest recorded observations made by Assyrian-Babylonians around 1,000 B.C. The ancient Greeks elevated sky-watching to a new level with Hipparchus, often called the father of empirical astronomy. His observations helped to develop the brightness scale used today. He also made the first attempt to calculate distances between planets using a telescope, and invented the geometrical method of plotting the positions of celestial bodies on maps.

Modern astronomy is a very collaborative endeavor, with many amateurs contributing data to the scientific community. For those interested in getting involved, there are a variety of projects that can be completed with the most basic equipment, and some do not require any telescope at all. For example, tracking the lunar cycle, or observing and timing an asteroid occultation (when a known asteroid passes in front of a background star and blocks it from view for a short time) are both simple ways to contribute to astronomical research.

Astronomy can also be a tool for social good. It can be a great way to promote healthy lifestyles by encouraging people to get outdoors, and it can help alleviate stress and anxiety, especially for populations facing adversity or distress such as those affected by the recent COVID-19 pandemic in Europe. Research has shown that exposure to nature and the stars can reduce symptoms of depression and increase feelings of wellbeing.

It can also help to break down barriers between communities and foster an interest in science for young people from marginalized groups, such as girls in rural areas or those who have not had the best educational opportunities. Astronomy can provide a sense of accomplishment and hope, helping to empower and inspire individuals. It can also be a fun and engaging activity for families, providing an excellent opportunity to bond with one another while learning about the universe.