Special Events

Public Star Night – Friday, September 19, 2025

   Little Thompson Observatory

                    Doors Open:  7:00PM | Guest Speaker 7:30PM  | Observing at LTO: 8:30-10:00PM

        

String Theory Is Not Dead – What’s New Over the Last Decade of this “Theory of Everything”

A special presentation by

John Ensworth

Join us for an exciting update on the latest developments in string theory, spotlighting the groundbreaking work of physicist Cumrun Vafa and the Swampland Project! Building on previous talks at this observatory, this presentation will explore how Vafa’s pioneering ideas are shaping our understanding of the universe by distinguishing viable quantum gravity theories from those in the “swampland.” Discover how this research may help address cosmological problems and spark new insights across other scientific fields. Perfect for science enthusiasts and curious minds eager to explore the frontiers of cosmology!

John Ensworth is currently a middle and high school teacher at his kid’s school (5 years), Resurrection Christian School, in Loveland. Previously, he was the Principal Investigator of the NASA Science Mission Directorate Independent Education Product Review for 17 years. His position at the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies had him responsible for conducting reviews and helping with NASA education and outreach efforts with products that are scientifically accurate and appropriate for the educational audience they are intended for. In the 90s Mr. Ensworth was a masters student and a PhD candidate in meteorology at the University of Oklahoma. He teaches physics and mathematics at several online universities. He earned undergraduate degrees in physics and astronomy, and geography and meteorology with an emphasis in math and computer science. He is the owner and operator of the Cherrywood Observatory in Longmont, CO.

Following the talk by John, the observatory will be open for public viewing through our telescopes, weather permitting.

Celebrating 26 Years of serving the public.
Note that reservations are not required for our Public Star Nights.