Astrology and Astronomy: Using the Night Sky to Teach Scientific Reasoning - September 23, 2025

Includes a Live Web Event on 09/23/2025 at 3:30 PM (PDT)

Registration closes Tuesday, September 23 at 12pm Pacific Time

Workshop takes place Tuesday, September 23, 2025 3:30 - 5:30pm PT / 6:30 - 8:30pm ET

Astrology and astronomy once shared a common sky — rooted in observation, wonder, and the human drive to understand the cosmos. Over time, however, they diverged: astronomy became a data-driven science, while astrology evolved into a symbolic and cultural practice. In this 2 hour workshop, participants will explore that historical split not to dismiss, but to engage in a respectful, evidence-based dialogue that models how to teach scientific reasoning with empathy and rigor.

Educators will gain tools to help students critically examine what makes a claim scientific, distinguish science from pseudoscience, and reflect on the role of evidence, testability, and revision in the scientific process. Participants will walk away with NGSS-supportive strategies, classroom-ready activities, and the confidence to navigate complex conversations about science, belief, and the nature of knowing — all through the lens of the night sky.

Ideal for high school and general education college instructors.

This workshop takes place in one 2 hour session.

Participants will gain the following through participation in the workshop:

  • Tools to confidently teach the difference between science and pseudoscience using NGSS-aligned strategies.
  • Historical and conceptual context to explore the shared origins and modern divergence of astrology and astronomy.
  • Ready-to-use classroom activities and discussion prompts that promote critical thinking and scientific reasoning.
  • Access to astronomy education experts and peer educators for discussion, Q&A, and instructional support.
  • A certificate of completion for 2 hours of professional development through the Astronomical Society of the Pacific.

Registration: $40

Attendance/Refund Policy

Live attendance is strongly encouraged and expected in order to get the most out of the interactive session. A recording will be available for those who cannot attend live or who would like to review the content. Full refund is available for cancellations up to 14 days prior to the start of the workshop. If you need to cancel please email learn@astrosociety.org.

Tony Smith

Online Learning Program Specialist

Astronomical Society of the Pacific

Tony Smith is the Online Learning Program Specialist at the Astronomical Society of the Pacific. Tony has worked in informal science education since 2011 at various Pacific Northwest science centers and prior to joining the ASP managed the J. Watumull Planetarium at Bishop Museum in Honolulu, HI. In addition to the ASP, Tony also works part time at the Washington State University Planetarium and volunteers at the Palouse Discovery Science Center in Pullman, WA where he lives. Tony is passionate about science education and uses an interactive presentation style, asking for observations and input from the audience throughout his presentations. 

Shanil Virani

Cosmic Engagement Specialist

Astronomical Society of the Pacific

Shanil Virani is a professional astronomer and a passionate science educator with more than 2 decades of classroom teaching experience. He has taught astronomy at both the high school level and at the university level to both majors and non-majors. In 2017, Shanil was nominated by his students for James Madison University’s General Education Distinguished Teaching Award.  In addition to his current role at the ASP, he is also an Adjunct Professor in the University Honors College at The George Washington University where he teaches a class on archaeo-astronomy.

Components visible upon registration.