2020-02-13 12:55:42
David Hockney, a long-time shining presence in the visual art world, explored the majesty of Yosemite, and created stunning landscapes on his iPad. The Heard Museum is exhibiting these digital paintings, along with many other must-see artworks, as well as holding major events this month. Turn to page 30 for the details.
Q&A
Stephanie Juneau /
Associate Astronomer at NSF’s National Optical- Infrared Astronomy Research Laboratory
Q: Where were you born?
In a small town called Sainte-Victoire in Québec, Canada.
Q: How did you become interested in your career field?
I’ve always been curious and fascinated by the natural world, but I only got my true inspiration for astrophysics after trying it first hand as an undergraduate summer intern. This might sound like a cliché, but what spoke to me the most was the vastness of the universe. Once I started learning about the distances — reaching billions of light-years — and realized that there was so much out there waiting to be discovered, I wanted that immense world to become mine to explore.
Q: What is the biggest challenge of your job?
Even though there are intellectual challenges in astrophysics, I very much enjoy working on those, and what feels the most challenging to me is time management. I find it easy to have several ideas for possible research projects, but cannot find the time to do “all the things.” It’s not something for which we get trained as students so we have to learn on the fly.
Q: What is the greatest reward of your job?
The thrill of discovery! My favorite part of being a scientist is to get to see or find something that no one else has found before. Most of the time, it’s only a tiny piece of a much larger puzzle, but it’s still thrilling and motivating.
Q: When you have the time, what is your favorite TV show to binge watch?
I don’t follow many TV shows but I like watching movies that are thought-provoking and stand out from the mainstream. I also like foreign films that give a glimpse of the lifestyle in other parts of the world. Some movies I liked include Maiden for being inspiring, and The Farewell for being both thought-provoking and moving.
Q: What’s your favorite food indulgence?
Chocolate fondue with bananas and strawberries. I’m also a fan of cheese fondue and a type of meat fondue with an onion soup-like broth.
Q: In 20 words or less, describe your perfect day.
My perfect day is sunny, takes me to a mountain to rock climb or use a telescope, and ends with a colorful sunset and then a starry sky.
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