In an effort to make STEM education more accessible to students in rural areas of northern Arizona, the Jim and Linda Lee Planetarium at Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott has introduced a mobile planetarium.
Bringing the Universe Closer
The Mobile Planetarium, also known as the Starlab inflatable dome, is designed to accommodate up to 20 children at a time and is being taken to schools across rural Arizona by the planetarium team.
Bridging the Access Gap
Eric Edelman, the Community Outreach Director, expressed the importance of reaching students who may not have the means to visit the planetarium due to distance or other challenges.
Empowering Rural Students
Using a projector and computer program, the dome provides a unique and immersive experience by projecting stars, planets, and galaxies within arm's reach of the children.
Bridging the Education Disparity
According to the Department of Defence's STEM program, students in rural areas face challenges in receiving a quality education in STEM subjects. The planetarium aims to address this disparity by bringing the wonders of space and STEM to all students, regardless of their location.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Edelman emphasized the importance of inclusivity in scientific discovery and exploration, stressing that all students should have the opportunity to explore the universe and pursue their interests in space and STEM.
Encouraging Exploration
By offering access to the stars and creating a sense of wonder, the planetarium hopes to spark curiosity and interest in space and STEM among children in rural Arizona.
Empowering Future Innovators
As the mobile planetarium travels to different schools, it aims to inspire students to reach for the stars and discover the endless possibilities that the universe holds.
Expanding Horizons