 Ben Burress, Astromoner from Chabot Space & Science Center talks to 2 students from Deerpark CBS, Cork. Monthly Web of Stars sessions take place at BCO using a video link between the students and astronomers at CSSC and BCO. False colour target images are created by the students using free to download software.
Over a 6 month pilot period from October 2009 to March 2010 astronomers at Chabot observed the Bay Area sky at night for targets chosen by Cork students at preliminary workshops at Blackrock Castle Observatory or at their school using the medium of the BCO Stardome, a portable planetarium.
The US astronomers deliver the astronomical images to the students at live sessions in Blackrock Castle workshops in order to discuss their properties and share information about the night sky. The opportunity takes advantage of the eight-hour time difference between Cork and the San Francisco Bay Area.
The project was conceived to celebrate the 2009 International Year of Astronomy, as well as the 25th anniversary of San Francisco and Cork becoming sister cities.
"This educational opportunity is an extraordinary way to celebrate the 25th anniversary of San Francisco and Cork becoming sister cities," said San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom. "The telescopes at Chabot Space & Science Center will provide inspirational science education to the students in Cork. The two cities will continue to strengthen the links between them and explore possibilities for further commercial, tourism, cultural and educational contacts."
The success and popularity of the project has ensured its continuity and sessions begin again in September 2010.
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