Fiske now offers a variety of virtual programs and resources so that we can stillexplore the universe with you no matter where you are. All of our virtual programs are run live with our knowledgeable undergraduate presenters who are happy to answer your questions.
Take a look at our suite of other programs and resources, which include our on a wide variety of topics, our , and activities you can do at home or virtually.
When you are ready to schedule a visit, please fill out a Request Form.
Changing Climates: A Tale of Three Planets
Climate change is a complex and wide-reaching problem. How are astronomers contributing to our understanding of this crisis? First, we’ll explore the histories of our nearest planet neighbors, Venus and Mars, and what they can tell us about our own past, present and future. With this knowledge, how can we think creatively to solve parts of the problem? We’ll discuss how we’re personally feeling impacted by climate change and what small actions we can all take going forward. (Supporting resources available in English & Spanish for this program.)
- NGSS Standards: ESS1.B; ESS2.D; ESS3.C; ESS3.D; Constructing Explanations; Cause & Effect
- SEL Competencies: Self-management, Responsible decision-making
The Galaxies that Grew Our Minds
Less than a century ago, the known universe was thought to be a much smaller place. Most astronomers claimed that the Milky Way galaxy contained everything, including faint “spiral nebulae.” However, in the 1920s, some astronomers hypothesized that these nebulae were instead entire, separate, “island universes” - galaxies astonishingly and -for some- unimaginably far away. How did these relatively modern astronomers come to work out the size and scale of the universe, and how does the science community support risk-taking and respond to new ideas?
- NGSS Standards: ESS1.A; Engaging in Argument from Evidence; Scale, Proportion, and Quantity
- SEL Competencies: Social awareness, Responsible decision-making, Relationship Skills
Overcoming the Challenges of Traveling to Mars
Astronauts are selected for their scientific achievements and their ability to persevere through challenges. From living in microgravity and small spaces to managing feelings of isolation from their friends and family, astronauts must closely monitor their mental, physical, and communal health. Collaborating effectively with their team is crucial to survival. When humans make their first long journey through the harsh environment of space to Mars, these necessary skills are only amplified. What can we learn from the challenges astronauts face on a trip to Mars and how these skills relate to our daily lives back here on Earth?
- NGSS Standards: ESS1.B; Asking Questions and Defining Problems; Obtaining, Evaluating and Communicating Information
- SEL Competencies: Relationship skills, Social awareness, Self-management
Additional Virtual Programs
Custom Dome to Home
With our virtual planetarium shows, we can still take your group anywhere in the universe! Conducted live via our YouTube stream or on a Zoom call, we have the ability to use the same visuals we would have in our normal planetarium and MiniDome shows. Kids can even ask the presenter questions using the live chat box! These shows are tailored to your group and customizable for any topic(s) or age range.
- Program length: 30minutes
- Age recommendation: 5+
Infrared Camera
Have you ever wanted to be a superhero with heat vision? Or find out how night vision goggles work? We'll use our infrared camera on a Zoom call to investigate how different forms of light allow us to see things our eyes normally couldn't. How do astronomers use infrared light to study distant stars and planets? Test out which everyday objects are "transparent" to infrared light, see how hot and cold items radiate differently, and learn about how this relates to the greenhouse effect.
- Program length: 30minutes
- Age recommendation: 7+
MockUp Games: Habitable Worlds
NASA is excited to send astronauts to spend time on the moon and Mars, but do you know what it takes for living things to thrive on another planet? Do you think you could design a habitat for plants, animals, or even people? In this activity, small groups will brainstorm and engineer livable spaces for other planets based on randomly-drawn conditions like which planet, what kind of life, and how long they'll be there. Groups will utilize skills like teamwork, critical thinking, and ingenuity to create ideas for habitats to present to their classmates.
- Program length: 60minutes
- Age recommendation: 8+
- Maximum number of students: 40
This program is available both virtually and as an outreach activity to your location.
MORE Programs and Resources
Pricing Information
Per-Student Pricing | |
---|---|
60-minute Programs | 30-minute Programs |
$200 for up to 24 students | $100 for up to 24 students |
$5 per additional student | $5 per additional student |
We offer a 30% discount for Reduced Lunch and Title 1 schools.Contact ourEducation Departmentwith any questions.
Ready toschedule a virtual visit?
Completeourrequest form.