Volunteer
At the
Adler
| Department: | Education, Astronomy, or Special Events |
| Supervisor: | Education and Astronomy Departments |
| Objectives: | To
facilitate visual astronomical observing for our visitors and increase
the possibility for visitors to have an actual real-time astronomical
experience. To increase visitors understanding of the types of
telescopes that exist and to more fully understand their capabilities.
To provide volunteers with opportunities to develop the skills for using
telescopes and for teaching this skill to others. Could potentially lead
to volunteering in the Doane Observatory with the half–meter
telescope. |
| Responsibilities: |
• Share ideas about science, particularly astronomy and cosmology,
with museum visitors. • Staff telescopes on the Skywatcher's Terrace, explaining their use and assisting visitors with observing. • Assist with locating, focusing on, and explaining objects found in the sky to Adler visitors. • Assemble, diassemble and properly maintain Adler telescopes. • Assist with private events as needed. • Inform Supervisor of schedule changes, conflicts and all happy experiences. |
| Qualifications: | Must
be at least 17 years old. General familiarity with astronomy will aid in
the creativity of locating objects in the night sky. No specific
mechanical knowledge required. Comfort with speaking in front of groups
and patience while teaching children is necessary. Must have an interest
in observational astronomy and enjoy public contact. |
| Training: | Comprehensive training provided on telescope theory, practical
observing and public facilitation techniques by staff. Trainings are
offered on a bi-yearly basis. They consist of two daytime telescope
essentials classes and five evening stargazing classes. All volunteers
must attend telescope essentials classes and at least three stargazing
classes. During their interview with the Manager of Volunteer Services,
volunteers will be made aware of upcoming trainings they may be able to
attend. |
| Commitment: |
• Successfully complete a comprehensive training program and
certification by Adler astronomer. • Make a regular commitment to facilitate solar viewing once a week for two hours per visit and as needed for special evening events (generally weekends). • Make a minimum commitment of one year. |
| Materials Fee: | There
is a required $40 fee for materials. This includes a Telescope Manual,
Stargazing Manual, and Star Chart. The fee may be adjusted at any
time. |
If you have any questions or want more information, please feel free to contact the volunteer program manager at 312-542-2411 or send us an e-mail to volunteer@adlerplanetarium.org [an error occurred while processing this directive]