GLEN MILLS, PA — A former NASA educator has built one of Maris Grove’s largest resident-led programs, drawing dozens of seniors each month to astronomy presentations that blend space science with hands-on observation and educational outreach.
Roger Kennedy, a resident at the Erickson Senior Living community since 2022, leads the Maris Grove Astronomy Club, which regularly attracts 50 to 60 attendees for monthly presentations in the community’s Performing Arts Theater. Larger events draw more than 100 residents.
Kennedy, who continues to work on NASA-related projects, launched the club after relocating from New Mexico with his wife, Linda, to be closer to family.
The presentations cover topics ranging from star formation and discoveries made by the James Webb and Hubble space telescopes to NASA’s Artemis lunar exploration program.
“As a working astronomer, I’ve been doing this my whole life,” Kennedy said. “I’m sharing that knowledge with people who want to learn.”
In addition to classroom-style programs, the club hosts outdoor solar viewing sessions using specialized telescopes that allow residents to safely observe activity on the sun’s surface.
One of the group’s largest annual events, “Music Under the Stars,” combines astronomy with live music. During the program, Kennedy presents astronomical imagery while Linda Kennedy, a professional harpist, performs music inspired by the night sky. The event draws approximately 150 attendees each year.
Kennedy described the club as designed to make astronomy accessible regardless of prior scientific experience.
“We’re following the model of lifelong learning,” he stated. “No matter what your age is, you can learn something new and be exposed to things you’ve never seen before.”
He noted that residents frequently continue discussions after presentations and approach him elsewhere on campus with additional questions, creating opportunities for ongoing learning and social engagement.
More information about Maris Grove is available at MarisGrove.com.
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