Graduating Student Spotlight: Ella Butler

As Ella Butler prepares to graduate with her Bachelor’s of Science in Astronomy and Physics, she reflects on highlights from her time at Steward Observatory, including sharing her love of astronomy as a tour guide at the Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab and as a planetarium operator at Flandreau Science Center. As she looks ahead to someday being a professor herself, she says “the great educators in the past have all paved the way for me to be here.” Read her full interview below.

What brought you to Steward Observatory?

I've always been fascinated with astronomy. Over time, little things have added up to help nurture my passion for this field. Movies like Interstellar, books about constellations and the solar system, experiences like seeing transits of Mercury as well as the solar eclipse in 2017, and the great educators in the past have all paved the way for me to be here.

Can you describe your research and any especially interesting learning experiences you’ve had during your time here?

I am currently in an undergraduate research group led by Dr. Yancy Shirley. I've reduced data and assisted in writing code for research on the Taurus Molecular Cloud. A learning experience that stood out to me was a group project on Cepheids in ASTR 302. The number of challenges my group faced with regard to data collection was astounding, to the point where it became entertaining. We still ended up with an awesome project. I was also the vice president of the Astronomy Club for a few years. This helped me gain valuable leadership experience and collaborative opportunities that will help me in my future.

What's your greatest point of pride from your time at Steward?

The abundance of opportunities here are something I can take pride in. I've been able to lead tours of the Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab. I enjoy taking the guests to the lab, and telling them about how it's building the next generation of telescopes from beneath the football stadium. At the same time, I have been able to operate the planetarium at the Flandrau Science Center just across the street from Steward. I love talking to the public, and especially to kids, about the wonders of the universe.

Can you share piece of wisdom from your time as an astronomy student?

Astronomy keeps you busy. Make time for yourself, and make time for your hobbies. Doing this is important for your happiness.

What’s next? 

I will be working towards becoming a professor one day, so that I can teach and support the next generation of astronomers.

We’re excited to celebrate our graduating students. Stayed tuned for more Spotlight profiles on Steward Observatory graduates, and follow our social media channels for more insight into the lives of our students, staff and faculty. 

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