Many people have attended events such as star parties given by clubs and organizations, taken really academically involved astronomy courses, visited planetariums, or have participated in after school or enrichment programs where they have witnessed an entertaining demonstration. We have also and find that many people, especially children, quickly loose interest in both science and astronomy after doing so.
Astronomy is the oldest science.
The science of both fact and imagination and should be taught and explained to those interested in learning about it by using the time tested, proven methods of inquisition that the ancient peoples themselves used. Yet Galileo's imagination and enthusiasm about this fascinating science allowed him to learn, understand, and pass on to others the extensive knowledge he had acquired by himself, through his own imagination, enthusiasm and observation of the universe. Fun and entertaining slide shows, lectures, and experiments are sure to enrich the participants understanding of the universe, while whenever possible actual hands on day and night astronomical observing is done through a variety of large telescopes. I have been an active amateur astronomer for over 40 years and have lectured and taught numerous children, teens, teachers, and adults at schools, planetariums, events, book stores, homes and star parties throughout the community on the wonders of astronomy.