“Astronomy in Ozark Heritage” 3rd Annual MSU-WP Academic Symposium

“Astronomy in Ozark Heritage” is the theme of the third annual Academic Symposium hosted by Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP). The event will begin at 4 p.m. Refreshments will be served. Admission is free.

“Since we had the eclipse in April, we wanted to emphasize astronomy in our theme for this year’s event,” said Ana Estrella, chair of MSU-WP’s public affairs committee which organizes the event.

The keynote presentation, “Close Encounters of the Ozark Kind” will be given by Dr. Thomas Kersen, associate professor of sociology and criminal justice at Jackson State University in Mississippi, Estrella said.

In addition, representatives from DarkSky Missouri will present and man a table with demonstrations and resources, Estrella said. DarkSky Missouri’s mission is to raise awareness about light pollution issues in Missouri, promote quality outdoor lighting, protect our natural environment and our beautiful night sky, and educate the public how reducing light pollution can lower energy costs, according to its website.

The Academic Symposium is designed to celebrate the academic endeavors of students by shining a spotlight on their evidence-based research projects. Students from different degree programs and disciplines will display posters of their work, and several will give presentations outlining their discoveries.

“Our goal is to grow this event as the biggest conference in the region where the general public has the opportunity to connect with students, academics and experts while learning more about the projects happening in this area,” Estrella explained. “We would like to invite the community to save the date and join us for this unique event.”

For more information, contact Estrella at AnaEstrellaRiollano@MissouriState.edu.