MEDFORD, Ore. After going halfway to space, a Medford teacher is bringing some of the most advanced astronomy in the world to North Medford High.

North Medford teacher Robert Black and local amateur astronomer Dave Bloomsness recently returned from a trip to the worlds largest flying telescope. The two are among 24 educators selected to fly on NASAs Stratosepheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA).

For five days, they tagged along with scientists using infrared to study star formation, composition of comets, and supermassive black holes.

They say the experience, and their enthusiasm, will rub off in the classroom.

I learned about how exciting it is to see what I teach actually come onto a screen before my very eyes, said Black.

The two will be sharing their experiences from their time with NASA through multiple local appearances.

The first will be at the North Medford High Planetarium on May 28th. Theyll also be speaking at Science Works Museum and with the Grants Pass astronomy club at later dates.

Excerpt from:

Teachers Return from the Stratosphere