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Stellar Achievements — GHHS Astronomy Students Showcase Deep Space Imaging

Posted Date: 1/24/25 (6:00 PM)
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A group photo from a school board meeting showing students from the Gig Harbor High School Observing Program alongside board members and administrators. The students are proudly displaying large photographs of the North American Nebula they captured, showing vibrant red and pink cosmic clouds against a dark space background. The image includes a mounted display on the wall behind them showing similar deep space photography. The group stands in front of an American flag and Washington state flag in what appears to be a school district board room.

Stellar Achievements — GHHS Astronomy Students Showcase Deep Space Imaging

The most recent board meeting, Jan. 21, was illuminated by a presentation from Gig Harbor High School’s (GHHS) Astronomy Club. Four talented students demonstrated their remarkable work capturing and processing deep space images. 

The student team, consisting of seniors Jack P. and Ashley E., sophomore Mia C., and Seamus R., showcased stunning images including the North American Nebula. Using sophisticated telescope equipment and specialized software, these young astronomers capture images through specific light filters that detect different gases like hydrogen, sulfur, and oxygen. 

Their work requires technical precision. The students explained how they track celestial objects with accuracy down to 1/3000th of a pixel over an hour of observation time. Each final image represents hours of careful data collection and processing, combining multiple five to 15 minute exposures through different filters to reveal the true colors and composition of these distant objects. 

We’re proud of this innovative club that opens windows to the universe for our students while building valuable technical and presentation skills for their futures.