This is a hands-on guide for both the budding astronomer in need of a mentor and the seasoned observer who wants to learn how to effectively share their knowledge with newcomers.Through decades of teaching observational astronomy at the high school and college level, Dr. Daniel E. Barth has inspired thousands of beginners, and in this book he shares the many ways that you can learn and teach others, too. The chapters contain a plethora of practical projects in observational astronomy that can be done on your own or with others, delighting any hobbyist with the many wonders of the night sky.The activities are tailored for different skill levels, always starting from the basics and working their way up to more challenging tasks. They can be done outdoors with a telescope or indoors with a few simple materials, depending on the sky conditions and time of year. Make astronomy fun for all with these engaging DIY projects, which include step-by-step instructions for modeling, sketching, observing, recording, and many other interactive exercises. Appropriate for the amateur who wants to teach their passion, the beginner who has their very first telescope, the binocular owner, and even those who do not yet own equipment, Star Mentor is your guide to forming and sharing a lifelong love for astronomy.

Dr. Daniel E. Barth taught astronomy and physics in public high schools for 28 years (1986-2014). In addition, he spent 8 years teaching astronomy and physics at the college level as Assistant Professor of Astronomy and Physics at Mt. San Jacinto College (2007-2014). From 2014 onward, he has served as the Assistant Professor of STEM Education for the University of Arkansas, training teachers and developing the Astronomy for Educators Program, for which he was awarded the 2018 Global Campus Award for Best STEM Text.In addition, Dr. Barth has worked for 6 years with the Arkansas Dept. of Education (ADE). In this role, he has been a lead author of State Standards for Astronomy and Space Science, a lead author for the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for ADE, and a Consultant for the AR STEM Model Program Core Leadership Team.