Questioning and comparing the knowledge of science teacher candidates on basic astronomy concepts with individuals from various educational fields visiting UZAYMER and participating in public observation

In this research, open-ended qualitative questions consisting of 14 questions prepared in accordance with the curriculum on Earth, universe, astronomy and basic science subjects were developed in order to determine the understanding and comprehension levels of Çukurova University Science teacher candidates and Uzaymer visitors on basic astronomy subjects and to detect and compare misconceptions. The questions in the test were created in line with the topics included in the science teaching curriculum. The sample of the research consists of 174 teacher candidates studying in the 1 st to 4 th grades studying science teaching department at Çukurova University and Uzaymer visitors who work in professions with different educational fields. As research findings, it was determined that science teacher candidates' astronomy knowledge changed depending on their grade level and that there were misconceptions in the answers given on basic physics subjects. It was concluded that the answers given by the Uzaymer visitors about astronomy had no relationship with age and profession. No significant difference was found in the answers given by teacher candidates and Uzaymer visitors to astronomy questions. Keywords: Astronomy, Education, Astronomy education