Speaker Friday, December 19, 2025
In a city surrounded by streetlights and skyline, Vanderbilt’s Dyer Observatory proves that one does not need perfect darkness to illuminate minds. As both an educational facility and a beloved event space, Dyer blends science with community engagement, offering programs that make astronomy relevant and approachable. Dr. Billy Teets invites attendees to explore how this historic observatory continues to bring people together under the stars—regardless of the light pollution.
Join the Green Hills Rotary Club on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 7:15 a.m. at the Boy Scout Service Center on Hillsboro Road, as Dr. William “Billy” Teets, Director of Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory, shares stories and insights from one of Nashville’s most unique educational institutions. His presentation will highlight the history of astronomy at Vanderbilt University, showcase the observatory’s current programming, and offer a behind-the-scenes look at how Dyer serves the broader community.
Dr. Teets is the Director and Resident Astronomer of Dyer Observatory, where he leads a wide range of public engagement activities including telescope nights, science camps, school outreach, lectures, and concerts. He also maintains many of the observatory’s exhibits and equipment, collaborates with Vanderbilt’s physics and astronomy department, and teaches introductory astronomy courses.
A native of Clarksville, Tennessee, Dr. Teets holds a B.S. in Physics from Austin Peay State University and a Ph.D. in Astrophysics from Vanderbilt University. His journey with Dyer began as a student worker in 2006, continued as full-time outreach astronomer in 2012, and culminated in his appointment as Director in 2020.
Whether you are interested in science education, local history, or simply enjoy learning something new, this presentation will offer a meaningful look at how one observatory continues to inspire wonder and discovery in the heart of Middle Tennessee.
For more information, see their website
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