Around The Cracker Barrel - Exploring the Universe: Inside the Whipple Observatory (Aired 07/31/2026)

This week on Around the Cracker Barrel, Guy Atchley welcomes Amy Oliver, Head of Education and Outreach at the Whipple Observatory, and Steve Irwin, volunteer council member, for an engaging look at one of Southern Arizona's premier scientific destinations. The conversation explores how Whipple Observatory has become a world-renowned center for astronomical research while also expanding its mission to educate and inspire visitors of all ages.Listeners will learn about Whipple's growing volunteer program, the observatory's unique public walking tours, and the opportunity to stand on the telescope platform of the only public-access gamma-ray observatory of its kind in the Northern Hemisphere. Steve shares his journey from retirement to becoming a tour guide, while Amy explains how volunteers receive training and why no scientific background is required—just curiosity and a willingness to learn. The observatory is also planning expanded educational opportunities for schools, homeschool families, and sensory-friendly programs for children with autism and ADHD.The episode also highlights the first-ever Southwest Skies Astronomy Festival, coming October 1–3, 2026. This free, community-wide event will feature observatories and astronomy organizations from across the Southwest, along with lectures, star parties, exhibits, open houses, food vendors, and family-friendly activities throughout Green Valley. Businesses and volunteers are still invited to participate.Amy also shares exciting updates about Whipple Observatory's continued growth, including visitor numbers increasing from just a few thousand annually to an expected 30,000 visitors this year, with ambitions to welcome 100,000 visitors in the coming years. The discussion concludes with a fascinating look at the observatory's cutting-edge research, including new instruments designed to study dark matter, the birthplace of gamma-ray astronomy, and why ground-based observatories remain essential even in the era of space telescopes like James Webb.For more information about visiting the observatory, volunteering, or the Southwest Skies Astronomy Festival, visit whipple.cfa.harvard.edu and southwestskies.cfa.harvard.edu.