The photo is of the Element Wheel Assembly, a part in the Nancy Grace Roman telescope’s Wide Field Instrument which the speaker, Dr. Margaret Dominguez, helped create. The assembly contains eight science filters, two dispersive elements (a grism and prism) and a “blank” element (used for internal calibration) that will help scientists solve some of the most profound mysteries in astrophysics when Roman launches by May 2027 (or sooner). Credit: Bell Aerospace.
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Hamptons Observatory (HO), a 501(c)(3) NYS nonprofit that relies on public support has served the South Fork since 2005. Hamptons Observatory offers all of its programs free-of-charge so that everyone can enjoy the wonders of their Universe. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to help support our work. Thanks!
Virtual Astronomy Lecture:
“NASA’s Mission: Exploring the Universe” (A Free, Virtual Lecture)
SPEAKER: Dr. Margaret Dominguez, NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center
CO-HOST: Suffolk County Community College
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED: https://bit.ly/ExploringTheUniverse
NASA’s missions are at the forefront of transforming our understanding of the universe. Each mission presents a unique challenge, demanding innovative solutions that combine cutting-edge technology with unparalleled reliability. From developing imaging systems on Mars rovers to pioneering laser communication networks that transmit data across millions of kilometers, NASA’s engineers and scientists tackle some of the most complex problems in modern science and engineering. These advancements allow us to explore deeper into space, unlocking the secrets of distant worlds and reshaping humanity’s understanding of the cosmos.
Dr. Margaret Dominguez will present an inspiring discussion about NASA’s groundbreaking missions and the technological innovation behind them. Drawing on her extensive experience developing advanced optical systems, she will guide audiences through the evolution of NASA’s great astronomical observatories — including the Hubble Space Telescope, Chandra X-ray Observatory, Spitzer Space Telescope, James Webb Space Telescope, and the upcoming Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope. She will explain how these telescopes—which operate across ultraviolet, visible, infrared, and X-ray wavelengths--have revolutionized astrophysics, from imaging distant galaxies and black holes to analyzing the atmospheres of exoplanets.
Dr. Margaret Dominguez serves as Associate Branch Head of the Optics, Laser and Photonics Branch at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. Since joining NASA in 2008, she has contributed to numerous missions. Her work has included optical design, alignment, and metrology for ground support equipment for the James Webb Space Telescope; contributions to Hubble; and, most recently, serving as test lead for the grism (grating prism) component of the Wide Field Instrument aboard the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope — technology that will help survey emission-line galaxies across vast cosmic distances. She is also a research associate at National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
Beyond her technical leadership, Dr. Dominguez is deeply committed to education and outreach. She was selected as a TECHNOLOchica and participates in Latina SciGirls — initiatives supported by PBS, National Science Foundation, Univision, and the National Center for Women & Information Technology — programs designed to raise awareness among young Latinas and their families about opportunities in STEM. She was named a 2021 OPTICA Ambassador and has been awarded NASA’s prestigious Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Medal. Through her work in advanced optics and her dedication to inspiring the next generation, Dr. Dominguez embodies NASA’s dual commitment: pushing the boundaries of astrophysics while expanding access to opportunities here on Earth.
Hamptons Observatory extends its deepest thanks to Dr. Dominguez for generously taking the time to share her expertise and to co-host Suffolk County Community College for their kind collaboration.
While this lecture is free, donations to support our programs are needed and deeply appreciated regardless of the amount. To make a tax-deductible donation to support our mission, please click HERE. Thanks!
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED FOR THIS FREE, VIRTUAL EVENT:
https://bit.ly/ExploringTheUniverse
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