Shaw-IAU Workshops by the OAE

One of the exhibitions created for the 100th anniversary of the IAU in 2019 was ŇInspiring StarsÓ, an exhibit with the goal of showcasing examples of inclusion in astronomy. Our contribution to this project was a set of tactile 3D globes of the terrestrial planets and the Moon. They were specially designed to allow persons with visual impairments (BVI) explore by themselves the most relevant features of these celestial bodies. Initially the design and creation of the globes involved complex, but we eventually developed a software capable to produce efficiently 3D digital tactile models from 2D maps. All the models, the software to make them and a couple of activity books are available for downloading at the projectŐs website: ŇA Touch of the UniverseÓ (https://www.uv.es/astrokit/).

About Amelia Ortiz Gil

Amelia Ortiz-Gil has a PhD in Physics (University of Valencia, Spain) and has carried her research on the topics of the Carte du Ciel photographic catalogue, the intergalactic medium and the physical properties of galaxy clusters at different research centres around the world. Lately she has focused on the field of astronomy outreach, in particular the development of inclusive activities for all publics. She is the coordinator of the project “A Touch of the Universe” which has developed tactile models of planetary bodies specially designed for the blind. She is currently the Chair of the International Astronomical Union Working Group on Astronomy for Equity and Inclusion. She was awarded the 2019 Europlanet Prize for Public Engagement with Planetary Science.

Watch a recording of this talk (external link)