An Introduction to the Universe: The Big Ideas of Astronomy

Let the beauty of astronomy inspire your contemplation of God’s creation. This course will give you a deeper appreciation of the sky and our ever-growing understanding of astronomy. 

Your guide for this journey through the cosmos is Dr. Guy Consolmagno, a Jesuit brother, renowned astronomer, and director of the Vatican’s astronomical observatory. In his engaging lectures, you’ll deepen your sense of joy as you gaze at the stars and appreciate the profound achievements of their Creator.

Podcast-style audio & video course – 12 Topics

Length: 4 hrs and 56 mins

An Introduction to the Universe: The Big Ideas of Astronomy

Bundles

Video Bundle: Meaning: Exploring the Big Questions of the Cosmos with a Vatican Scientist + The Intersection of Science and Theology: Evolutionary Theory and Creation – 9 CDs Total

  • Dr. Guy Consolmagno S.J., Ph.D.Fr. & James F. Salmon, S.J., Ph.D.

Video Bundle Galileo: Science, Faith, and the Catholic Church + An Introduction to the Universe: The Big Ideas of Astronomy – 24 Lectures Total

  • Fr. Harvey D. Egan, S.J., D.Theol., & Dr. Guy Consolmagno S.J., Ph.D.

Video/Audio Bundle: The Intersection of Science and Theology: Evolutionary Theory and Creation + Meaning: Exploring the Big Questions of the Cosmos with a Vatican Scientist – 8 Discs Total

  • Br. Guy Consolmagno S.J., Ph.D., Fr. James F. Salmon, S.J., Ph.D.

Video Bundle: An Introduction to the Universe: The Big Ideas of Astronomy + Meaning: Exploring the Big Questions of the Cosmos with a Vatican Scientist – 9 Discs Total

  • Dr. Guy Consolmagno S.J., Ph.D.

Video Bundle: God’s Creation: A Course on Theology and the Environment + Meaning: Exploring the Big Questions of the Cosmos with a Vatican Scientist – 8 DVDs Total

  • Sr. Dawn M. Nothwehr, OSF, Ph.D., & Dr. Guy Consolmagno S.J., Ph.D.

Video/Audio Bundle: The Intersection of Science and Theology: Evolutionary Theory and Creation + Meaning: Exploring the Big Questions of the Cosmos with a Vatican Scientist – 8 Discs Total

  • Fr. James F. Salmon, S.J., Ph.D., & Dr. Guy Consolmagno S.J., Ph.D.

Audio/Video Bundle: Why is Consciousness so Mysterious? + Meaning: Exploring the Big Questions of the Cosmos with a Vatican Scientist – 7 Discs Total

  • Dr. Guy Consolmagno, S.J., Ph.D. & Dr. Robert Lawrence Kuhn, Ph.D.

Audio/Video Bundle: Your Astonishing Brain + Meaning: Exploring the Big Questions of the Cosmos with a Vatican Scientist – 7 Discs Total

  • Dr. Guy Consolmagno, S.J., Ph.D. & Dr. Robert Lawrence Kuhn, Ph.D.

Video-Audio Bundle: Is Our Will Truly Free? + Meaning: Exploring the Big Questions of the Cosmos with a Vatican Scientist – 15 Lectures Total

  • Dr. Guy Consolmagno, S.J., Ph.D. & Dr. Robert Lawrence Kuhn, Ph.D.

Official Calendar

2025 VO Calendar

Vatican Observatory 2025 astrophoto calendars now available for purchase in our e-store!