Title:  
Bringing Astronomy to the Public: Successes and Challenges


Don Goldsmith
Interstellar Media

Abstract:
 
Three decades ago, I left the world of astronomy research for a
new career as a popularizer of astronomy, eager to bring what I
had learned about the cosmos to the public and unaware that the
public's sometimes heroic resistance to science would make this a
more difficult path to follow than I then imagined.

I have written (counting new editions separately) about twenty
textbooks or popular books on astronomy, and have worked on two
PBS television series (COSMOS and THE ASTRONOMERS), as well as on
a NOVA television program (IS ANYBODY OUT THERE?).  I have also
written brochures for NASA and other governmental institutions,
have given many public talks about astronomy, and have appeared on
radio and television talk shows as an astronomy expert.

These experiences lead me to believe that I know a good deal about
the joys and pitfalls of bringing astronomy into public
consciousness.  Even though my conclusions rest almost entirely on
anecdotal evidence, I do not hesitate to present them as valid,
though I am happy to have them challenged by those who disagree.

My talk will survey the current state of public interest in
astronomy and present ways to broaden and deepen this interest.
Most of the possibilities that I shall propose to you rest on the
willingness of professional astronomers to do a bit more in this
effort, despite the dangers and difficulties that arise whenever
one meets the public.  For relief from expostulation, I shall show
video clips from some of my favorite astronomy television
programs.