They developed events such as training, inclusive astronomy workshops, experiences with tactile models of the solar system and stories of astronomical experiences for officials, teachers, and students in the area.
18 / 01 / 2024
In October and November 2023, a team of academics and students from the Institute of Astrophysical Studies (IEA) of the Diego Portales University traveled to San Pedro de Atacama and the Los Lagos Region to carry out outreach activities with different local institutions, such as public libraries and schools in the area.
“The collaborations in Inclusive Astronomy this year were especially productive. Thanks to the support of the UDP Faculty of Engineering and Sciences, this year we were able to travel with students of the Doctoral program in Astrophysics to carry out dissemination activities in San Pedro de Atacama, to collaborate with the local Public Library and the ALMA Observatory, and to Ralún and Ensenada in Los Lagos to be part of the Astro Expeditions, organized by the IAU-NOC (National Dissemination Coordination of the International Astronomical Union),” said Erika Labbé, astronomer and dissemination coordinator of the Institute.
Between the 16th and 19th of October, Labbé and Camilo González, a UDP doctoral student, developed events such as training, inclusive astronomy workshops, experiences with tactile models of the solar system and stories of astronomical experiences for municipal officials, teachers, and students from San Pedro de Atacama.
“The participation of Inclusive Astronomy together with Erika Labbé and Camilo González, from the Institute of Astrophysical Studies UDP, was one of the most important activities of the Science Fair. Together with the team from the Inclusion and Disability Office, we focused our work on bringing astronomy closer to the students and all the participants who were at the Fair with a universal and inclusive language. It was the first time that a fair with an inclusive approach was held, thanks to Erika’s support. I also highlight the creation of different tactile formats of the Andean worldview stories such as dark constellations,” said Silvana Zúñiga, artist and manager of the Public Library of San Pedro de Atacama.
“Without a doubt it was an activity that stood out above the others since, in addition to bringing scientific knowledge and development to all people, the intervention was carried out on a blind student from the Toconao Educational Complex, where she was shown the possibilities of developing professionally in the sciences. We nurtured and collaborated between different institutions to create this fair, and ensure that the entire public had access to this information,” Zúñiga added.
“I think that the inclusive astronomy stand was a great contribution to the community, both to raise awareness among the population, to bring this knowledge closer to people with disabilities, and to generate more playful learning about a topic as interesting and broad as astronomy,” said Felipe Guzmán, kinesiologist at the Office of Inclusion for People with Disabilities of the Municipality of San Pedro de Atacama.
Subsequently, on November 20 and 21, Labbé, together with doctoral students Manuel Solimano and Emilio Hueichipán, carried out several workshops for courses from 4th grade to 2nd grade, along with astronomical experiences that included tactile models and blindfolds, and they gave the talks “Formation of Stars and Planets” and “Chile, the perfect observatory.”
“On our visit to Los Lagos, girls, boys and teachers welcomed us with great warmth. For me it was nice to see the interest with which they participated in our activities. Additionally, this allowed me to practice and improve my communication skills. On the other hand, I learned how multi-level rural schools function, something that was quite foreign to me. I hope our audience has learned something too,” Solimano commented.
You can review images of the activities carried out in Los Lagos and San Pedro de Atacama below:
