Exploring the Cosmos: How Urban Parks Bridge Communities and Space Science

Exploring Urban Astronomy: Bridging Communities with Space Science

When considering astronomy programs in national parks and public lands, remote areas often come to mind. However, a recent initiative by NASA’s Earth to Sky, supported by NASA’s Science Activation Program, is reshaping this notion. It highlights how urban parks, wildlife refuges, museums, and green spaces can serve as exceptional platforms for engaging communities with space science. By hosting programs in urban settings, we can connect with people in their everyday environments, allowing them to appreciate the celestial wonders right above their neighborhoods.

Innovative Training in Urban Astronomy

In early August 2025, NASA Earth to Sky teamed up with the National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to present a groundbreaking astronomy training titled “Rivers of Stars and Stories: Interpreting the Northern Night Sky” at the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge in Minneapolis-St. Paul. This three-day event gathered 28 park rangers, environmental educators, and outdoor communicators from the Twin Cities. The focus was on engaging urban audiences with space science, utilizing the unique opportunities that city skies offer.

Empowering Astronomy Communicators

Participants delved into topics ranging from lunar observations and aurora science to NASA’s Artemis Program and astrobiology. The training aimed to transform novices into confident astronomy communicators, emphasizing that everyone can be a skilled stargazer and storyteller. One attendee remarked on their newfound understanding, stating they moved from “knowing little to having a solid grasp on basic concepts and, importantly, where to find more resources!” The program also fostered a collaborative community where participants could continue sharing insights and resources.

Integrating Indigenous Perspectives

Discussions during the training emphasized the importance of respectfully incorporating local indigenous perspectives into astronomy programs, honoring traditional land stewards while avoiding cultural appropriation. This approach enriches the educational experience and fosters a deeper connection to the land and its history.

Building Lasting Connections with NASA

The course established enduring ties with NASA through expert presentations and demonstrations of NASA activity toolkits. As one participant noted, “This is just the beginning of a long learning journey, but now I know where to look and how to find answers.” Resources shared included the GLOBE Observer’s NUBE game, Our Dynamic Sun by NASA HEAT, the Aurorasaurus Citizen Science project, and the Solar System Ambassador Network.

Strengthening Community Engagement

Participants reported a significant increase in their sense of belonging to the Earth to Sky community. This aligns with NASA’s strategic goal of fostering sustained public engagement with Earth and space science. The overwhelmingly positive feedback, with all participants eager for more courses, underscores the value of collaboration between Earth to Sky, the National Park Service, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Expanding Access to Space Science

This collaborative effort is vital for building a network of science communicators who can reach thousands of visitors across Minneapolis-St. Paul’s parks and nature centers. By equipping local educators to share NASA’s discoveries, the program broadens access to space science for urban audiences throughout the Twin Cities.

Future Collaborations and Opportunities

The Earth to Sky team is committed to nurturing these valuable partnerships with the National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and other agencies and nonprofits. Discover more about Earth to Sky’s initiatives with park interpreters and educators by visiting: https://science.nasa.gov/sciact-team/earth-to-sky/.

Learn how Science Activation connects NASA experts with communities to inspire and deepen understanding of our world and beyond: https://science.nasa.gov/learn/about-science-activation/.