Storytelling for Scientists: Performing and Visual Arts

Through various showcases, I crafted narratives about my passion for astronomy in order to start conversations about the role of science in society. Stories included: the summer I learned to use a research-grade telescope, and the relation between astronomy and medieval art, and the feminist birth of climate science. By connecting science with topics that are more personable—from society to art—I want to share science in a way that reaches people.

Out of this World: Storytime at the Childrens Library

During my Fulbright, I designed an astronomy-themed storytime for kids at the German-American Insitute library in Heidelberg. We read picture books about planets, stars and constellations, “girls who do science,” and galaxies. Working with these kids is about helping them access stories about the Universe no matter the context. I also prepared introductory astronomy lectures for kindergarten students at the international language school.

Reach the World: Astronomy Travel Diaries

Through Reach the World, I wrote blog articles about my astronomy research and travels in Germany for a special-education elementary school classroom in New York City. I also collaborated with the teachers to set up video conferences over year, where the students could ask questions about the culture in Europe, and also what it’s like to be an astrophysicist.