Big Astronomy: People+Places+Discoveries
Show Description
To study the vastness of space, you need extra-large equipment. Join us for a quick trip to visit three world-class observatories in Chile's rugged Andes Mountains and the Atacama Desert — remote, extreme regions that have the perfect conditions for astronomical research.
Big Astronomy: People+Places+Discoveries also highlights the diverse people and variety of roles they play to make groundbreaking discoveries possible at these amazing observatories in Chile.
In the most remote locations on the planet, people are working to uncover mysteries throughout the universe… and most are not astronomers.
Big Astronomy: People+Places+Discoveries is set in Chile where the dry, dark sky and observatories’ remoteness create an ideal site to observe the universe. By the year 2022 it is expected that nearly 70% of the world’s ground-based observing infrastructure will be located there, and the US and other countries are investing billions of dollars in astronomy in Chile. Big Astronomy introduces audiences to the wide variety of personnel involved in advancing astronomical discovery. “When people think of astronomy they often imagine astronomers peering through telescopes,” says AUI President Adam Cohen. “They are unaware of the STEM village it takes to make exploration of the cosmos possible.” Big observatories today employ electrical and mechanical engineers, technicians, data analysts, machinists, heavy equipment operators, maintenance personnel, artists, cooks, and many more professionals. Each of these individuals plays an important role in making astronomical discoveries possible.
Beyond the fascinating places and people involved in astronomical research, the show includes the fruits of the research itself. “We are excited by the opportunity this project presents to both formal and informal STEM educators,” explains Tim Spuck, AUI Director of Education and Public Engagement and Principal Investigator (PI) for Big-ACT, “Astronomy excites learners of all ages. We can use the power of astronomy to help individuals understand that they can be part of amazing science and discoveries without necessarily becoming a PhD astronomer. We want every person attending the planetarium show to be able to connect the people they see to someone they know or someone they themselves can one day become.”
The Education Web Portal includes learning activities, interviews with observatory personnel, and a schedule of live virtual sessions with those working at the observatories.