The observational equipment is of excellent quality and the Astronomy classes enjoy both the use of the University Observatory and the Planetarium. Photography is done with 35mm cameras and with a recently added CCD camera which can be attached to many of the telescopes. Planetarium programs are offered both within classes and on a voluntary basis and are open to all students, faculty, and the general public. Several students from various majors who have taken astronomy courses are employed in the planetarium as lecturers. These students gain invaluable teaching experience during their employment.
All faculty members are highly qualified and have indicated a strong interest in teaching.
Some faculty members are engaged in astronomical research, and all are involved in the development of new curriculum and laboratory materials. N ight observation sessions are conducted by faculty members. One faculty member serves as the University Planetarium and Observatory Director. Many students take courses in Astronomy to satisfy general degree requirements in the natural sciences. However, others find that courses in Astronomy can enhance their other academic pursuits, such as outdoor education, physics, chemistry, or geology.