Astronomy Lectures and Presentations
Presenting to an international audience in Saba, Dutch Antilles
In addition to his presentations on the night sky, Steve speaks frequently at national and international venues, presenting frequentlylecturesworkshops and leading discussion and book groups on a wide variety of topics.around the country
Below are some of Steve's most popular recent lectures and experiential workshops. It's also possible to In addition to what is here, he can also tailor create a customized presentation for your group or organization.
Below are some of his most popular talks and presentations and their format:
Total Solar Eclipses - Steve is excited about total solar eclipses and has offering engaging presentations on the eclipse experience to many different educational and community groups. He's experienced total solar eclipses on four continents and discusses why eclipses happen, what to expect, eye safety, and unique aspects of the eclipse viewing experience that make it a one of a kind event.
Light Pollution and the Environment - Light pollution is a serious issue that affects wildlife, the environment, and human health. In this presentation lecture or short class (2 hrs), Steve we explores its many effects as well as what we can be done about it as individuals and communities. Presented in lecture format.
Recent Results on Cosmic History - An intermediate-level lecture on the history of the universe based on results from recent cosmological research. Presented in lecture format.
Contemplative Stargazing – Steve frequently leads stargazing events around the country where he orients people of all ages to the wonders of the night sky and our place in the universe. Presented outdoors. In case of cloudy or inclement weather, Steve can present a slide show on the latest results in astronomy or another topic.
Stephan is clearly scientifically trained and knowledgable to talk elegantly about scientific discoveries, but very open and curious about non-newtonian world-views activated by wonder and awe. The class evokes spine-tingling reverence for a completely stupendous universe. James Long, El Cahon, CA
A BIG, BIG THANK YOU! Elizabeth (Bing) Carranza, Quezon City, Phillipines
Total Solar Eclipses - Steve is excited about total solar eclipses and has offering engaging presentations on the eclipse experience to many different educational and community groups. He's experienced total solar eclipses on four continents and discusses why eclipses happen, what to expect, eye safety, and unique aspects of the eclipse viewing experience that make it a one of a kind event.
Light Pollution and the Environment - Light pollution is a serious issue that affects wildlife, the environment, and human health. In this presentation lecture or short class (2 hrs), Steve we explores its many effects as well as what we can be done about it as individuals and communities. Presented in lecture format.
Recent Results on Cosmic History - An intermediate-level lecture on the history of the universe based on results from recent cosmological research. Presented in lecture format.
Contemplative Stargazing – Steve frequently leads stargazing events around the country where he orients people of all ages to the wonders of the night sky and our place in the universe. Presented outdoors. In case of cloudy or inclement weather, Steve can present a slide show on the latest results in astronomy or another topic.
Stephan is clearly scientifically trained and knowledgable to talk elegantly about scientific discoveries, but very open and curious about non-newtonian world-views activated by wonder and awe. The class evokes spine-tingling reverence for a completely stupendous universe. James Long, El Cahon, CA
A BIG, BIG THANK YOU! Elizabeth (Bing) Carranza, Quezon City, Phillipines
Educational Courses and Series
Teaching constellations to first graders
As an educator for over 25 years, Steve presents courses on all aspects of astronomy for the general public and also customized educational experiences for groups of all ages, from amateur astronomy clubs to churches, public schools, homeschoolers, and other community groups. Feel free to contact him for an offering for your group or organization.
Some of his most recent courses are listed below.
Some of his most recent courses are listed below.
The Hidden Heart of the Cosmos Study Group
The Hidden Heart of the Cosmos explores the intersection of cosmology and life on Earth by asking the question, “What does it mean to be human in an evolutionary universe?” Bringing together transformative insights from leading edge science and spirituality, we explore how a life-affirming and life-enhancing New Story of our cosmic origin and cosmic perspective can begin to replace our old dysfunctional cultural story of materialism and consumerism. It’s a beautifully written book, filled with insights into the cosmic nature of human life and includes some wonderful exercises for cultivating a connection with a living universe.
We experienced a community becoming deeply engaged and excited as the new cosmology is explored and understood. Mary Coelho, Cambridge, MA
Astronomy for Everyone: A Journey of Discovery through the Cosmos
Where did everything come from? How did we get here? Is there life beyond Earth? Join us on a journey to the far reaches of the universe as we explore these questions and more in this exciting new holistic educational series that brings astronomy down to Earth and makes it relevant for everyone. Each session will consist of a presentation of the latest astronomical discoveries followed by discussion and stargazing (weather permitting). No background in science is needed and the sessions may be taken individually or together as a series. Everyone is welcome, so come explore the universe with us!
Recent course topics include:
- The Solar System
- The Sun and Stars
- The Milky Way and Galaxies
- Cosmology and the Birth of the Universe
- A Brief History of the Universe
- Are We Alone?: Alien Life and the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence
All topics are available to be delivered separately or together as a multi-session course for all ages.
Encountering the Night Sky: An Introduction to Stargazing
Have you ever wondered what’s that star? Looked through a telescope? Been curious about the universe? Join us for an exploration of the treasures of the night sky as we turn our eyes toward the rich collection of constellations, bright stars, and planets that fill the evening skies. Along the way we’ll learn about star charts, telescopes, and how to get started in astronomy. We’ll also explore the myths and stories of the constellations, the lives of the stars, and the latest theories about our place in the universe.
Available to be presented in a single evening or multi-session format.
Emerging Paradigms in Science
This course explores some of the most exciting and transformative discoveries in modern science and how they are revolutionizing our ideas about space, time, and our place in the universe. Course topics include quantum physics, relativity, chaos and complexity theory, systems biology, and consciousness studies.
Course topics can be presented in a single session or in a multi-session format.
New Directions in the Humanities and Culture
How do we find our way forward as a society and culture during this revolutionary moment in time? This course explores some of the most innovative ways of thinking and living are being explored and implemented. Course topics include integral philosophy, consciousness studies, ecological and green economics, holistic approaches to education, indigenous approaches to science, and others.
Course topics can be presented in a single session or in a multi-session format.
Stephan is one of those rare individuals that is equally at home with the latest scientific advances in astronomy as well as the deepest philosophical consequences of the new cosmology revealed to mankind in the 20th century. He can be delving into deep mathematical consequences of Einstein's theory and at the same time be capturing our hearts with the poetry of an omnicentric universe where every place is the sacred heart from which the universe can be said to have emerged. Stephan creates a climate in his class where every student feels encouraged to contribute and inspired to engage with the course content. His amazing faculty to listen to people makes every comment offered feel welcome and every question asked feel valuable. He is a master teacher who can instill wisdom with the fewest of words. I have been deeply inspired by taking his Deeptime Network course on the Hidden Heart of the Cosmos.
- Sarbmeet Kanwal from Holmdel, NJ
Book Talks and Groups
Steve has also had good response from his book Cosmic Conversations, and often gives talks on the results from the book to groups and organizations.
He also leads group discussions based on the book that explore the question “What is the Universe?” from multiple perspectives that embrace scientific, spiritual, and cultural viewpoints in an engaged and transformative way.
Through participating in conscious dialogue and open engagement with questions about the universe and their place in it, many people find new insights about themselves, their lives, and the world around them naturally arise, along with a deep connection to themselves and others. Through the dialogue process, people’s beliefs about themselves and the universe are gradually transformed, leading to a greater sense of connection, purpose, and appreciation for themselves and this mysterious universe.
He also leads group discussions based on the book that explore the question “What is the Universe?” from multiple perspectives that embrace scientific, spiritual, and cultural viewpoints in an engaged and transformative way.
Through participating in conscious dialogue and open engagement with questions about the universe and their place in it, many people find new insights about themselves, their lives, and the world around them naturally arise, along with a deep connection to themselves and others. Through the dialogue process, people’s beliefs about themselves and the universe are gradually transformed, leading to a greater sense of connection, purpose, and appreciation for themselves and this mysterious universe.
