Skywalkers
Space For Us Skywalkers Program will be a student-led, hands-on astronomy outreach initiative designed to empower students with real-world experience in observational astronomy. Through this project, students will take the lead in organizing and hosting public sidewalk astronomy events with guidance and mentorship from Space For Us leadership.
The goal is twofold. 1. To equip participants with technical skills in telescope operation and night sky navigation, and 2. Develop their confidence as science communicators through direct engagement with community members. These experiences deepen students’ understanding of astronomy and cultivate leadership, public speaking, and event coordination skills. We’re also launching a mobile observatory that will expand these hands-on experiences with state-of-the-art telescope technology and community science projects, empowering students to contribute meaningful data and see themselves as active participants in science. By meeting students where they are and giving them tools to explore, we are aiming to transform STEM from a distant concept into something they belong to.
Community Science Research
Community science in astronomy involves amateur astronomers and enthusiasts collaborating with professional scientists to observe and document celestial phenomena. This collaborative approach allows for the collection of a vast amount of data, enhancing our understanding of the universe.
Community science is crucial for monitoring transient events, discovering new celestial objects, and involving the public in scientific research, fostering a sense of shared exploration and education. It democratizes access to astronomical research, making it an essential part of advancing our knowledge of the cosmos.
More details on this program are forthcoming!
Star Parties
Astronomical star parties are monthly gatherings where seasoned space enthusiasts or wide-eyed beginners come together to observe celestial objects such as stars, planets, and galaxies. Telescopes are provided by Space For Us, however, participants are encouraged to bring telescopes and share their knowledge, fostering a communal atmosphere for stargazing and astronomical appreciation.
Star parties are more than just stargazing; they can be transformative experiences that ignite a cosmic perspective within every participant. This cosmic perspective is a profound overview of our place in the vast expanse of the universe.
Like astronauts experience the awe-inspiring "overview effect" from space, star parties provide an Earth-bound glimpse of this transformative phenomenon. We hope each participant departs from a star party with us or elsewhere with a renewed dedication to nurturing our collective home and a deep appreciation for our interconnectedness and the importance of preserving the sanctity of the night sky.