Launch of AstroYouth Program Bolsters Space-Related Tourism in Taos

UNM Taos was recently gifted a Dobsonian telescope, which will be the largest public-use telescope in New Mexico and serve as the centerpiece for a new ‘Cielo Centro’ featuring an ADA-compliant observatory and outdoor amphitheater. However, to date, Taos youth have had very little exposure to meaningful, culturally relevant experiences related to space science and technology.

So, a STEMArts Lab employee reached out to LOR with a solution, capitalizing on the development of the new Cielo Centro: develop and launch an AstroYouth curriculum, tour guide training, and podcast series to teach youth about space science and cultivate their interest in space-related careers while also advancing Taos’ space-related tourism economy.

LOR’s funding will cover the cost of podcast and video creation equipment, instructor and intern stipends, and all travel expenses related to launching the project.