Astronomy for Equity Brings Telescopes and Hope to astronomy students in Ukraine
Helping Astronomy Students in Ukraine
Astronomy students in Ukraine asked for telescopes to use during blackouts. Astronomy for Equity delivered. An Astronomy for Equity team will journey to Ukraine in November to meet the students and illuminate the the importance of science, education and community support in times of crisis and adversity for those hoping for a brighter future.
Mission
In November, a multinational team from Astronomy for Equity will visit these astronomy students and bring telescopes to others. It’s a rare opportunity for them to not only be inspired by the cosmos but also have a connection with international astronomers who share their passion.
These students are hoping for the future they envisioned before the war but uncertainty now clouds their future. The international astronomers will show them they aren’t forgotten and provide encouragement.
Meet the A4E Team
Traveling to Ukraine
A diverse team of professional and public outreach astronomers will visit several special schools across Ukraine where astronomy is taught as we travel through Ukraine.
Mike Simmons
USA
Mike founded Astronomy for Equity based on his 50 years leading astronomy organizations, with a focus on inclusive global astronomy programs for the past 25 years.
Kateryna Fantseva
Netherlands
Ukrainian astrophysicist and professor. Kateryna will return to her hometown of Vinnytsia where astronomy students received a telescope from A4Equity in 2023.
Cassondra Holmes
USA
Astronomy for Equity’s Project Manager. Cassondra is a dedicated public outreach astronomer with the Los Angeles Astronomical Society and co-founder of Stargazer Events LA.
Mirjana Povic
Ethiopia
Serbian-Spanish astronomer working across Africa. Mirjana grew up in Serbia during the Balkan Wars and works with students in countries in crisis based on her experiences.
Documentary
The A4E team’s journey will be the subject of a new documentary from Dean Love Productions, Hope Out of Darkness. Dean will join the team to capture the interactions and interview students, teachers, and parents to share with the world what the students face and how astronomy helps them deal with the challenges.
How You Can Help
Follow along as Astronomy for Equity astronomers travel through Ukraine visiting astronomy students and teachers while posting regular updates. Follow A4E on our social media channels.
Consider donating to Astronomy for Equity’s many programs to improve the lives of marginalized communities with astronomy.
Contact us here.