Exploring Supergiant Stars With Students: Using Real Astronomical Data In Youth Astronomy Education
TalkEducation Focus Session: Teaching with Authentic Data
7th Shaw-IAU Workshop
Wednesday Nov. 19, 2025
UTC: 4:50 p.m. - 5:05 p.m. America/New_York: 11:50 a.m.- 12:05 p.m.
Friday Nov. 21, 2025
UTC: 8:20 a.m. - 8:35 a.m. America/New_York: 3:20 a.m.- 3:35 a.m.
Aynura Hasanova (Shamakhy Astrophysical Observatory named after N.Tusi, Ministry of Science and Education)
This presentation describes an educational approach using real astronomical data focused on massive stars. Students explore stellar evolution through simplified datasets like light curves and spectra. Public databases (Gaia, SIMBAD) enhance scientific thinking and data literacy. Emphasis is on adapting authentic data for informal education, especially where instruments are limited. Connecting advanced topics like supergiant star life cycles to real data boosts student engagement and curiosity in astronomy.
About Aynura Hasanova
I am an observational astronomer specializing in massive supergiant stars, currently working at the Shamakhy Astrophysical Observatory named after N. Tusi. At the same time, I am engaged in the teaching of astronomy at the Republic Children and Youth Development Center. In my research and educational work, I use real astronomical data to develop programs that increase scientific interest and literacy among young learners. My goal is to combine scientific research and education to inspire a love of science in future generations.
