Oct 19, 2012
In today's episode Professor John Percy, a professional astronomer with a passion for making astronomy and space exploration engaging, joins Justin Trottier at The Star Spot.
Dr. Percy discusses his many educational astronomy activities, from hosting public events, to creating courses and resources for teachers, to finding creative cultural opportunities for outreach such as his work with the Toronto Tafelmusic baroque orchestra on their Galileo composition.
Starting their
conversation on Dr. Percy's primary academic interest in variable
stars, the two cover the challenges of developing relevant and
engaging astronomy curriculum, the role of public science
institutions in contributing to the vitality of city life, and how
Dr. Percy ended up having an asteroid named after
him.
About John Percy
Dr. John Percy is professor emeritus of astronomy at the University
of Toronto. He is past president of the Royal Astronomical Society
of Canada, the Royal Canadian Institute, and as honorary president
of the science teachers’ association of ontario and vice-chair of
the board of trustees of the ontario science centre.
Among a variety of awards and distinctions, Dr. percy won the
1997Royal Canadian Institute's Sandford Fleming Medal for
contributions to public awareness and appreciation of science and
technology and the 1999 Jack Bell Award for leadership in science
education. He is a fellow of the american association for the
advancement of science.
But perhaps his most long lasting recognition came with the naming
of
his
own asteroid. He joins us here at the Star Spot to discuss that
honour, and his insights bringing the world of astronomy and space
exploration alive to students and learners of all ages.