In this session, several STEM activities in astronomy will be presented. These activities use functions to model real world phenomena and include linear, quadratic, trigonometric and exponential. A TI-Nspire notes page will be used to enter and edit various functions. Some of the STEM activities include determining the length of daylight using a shadow stick at midday from any given latitude on Earth and approximating the distance to a galaxy using Cepheid variable stars. Students tend to develop a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts when they are rooted in real world modelling applications. Hopefully, these activities can empower students and foster a lifelong love of mathematical applications, hence promoting success and interest in related fields such as astronomy.

Key takeaways:
1. Technology can reveal hidden relationships within astronomical data sets.
2. Mathematical functions are useful for modelling astronomical phenomena.
3. Astronomy is an area of study that may be of interest to teachers and students.

Remember: TI calculator or Casio calculator may be useful in this session; although not a necessary requirement.