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Launch of AstroYouth Program Bolsters Space-Related Tourism in Taos

Taos
  • Local Champion: STEMarts Lab
  • Date Funded: December 17, 2024
  • Grant Amount: $21,075

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.

Contact our community officer in Taos. Meet Sonya Struck
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