On Saturday, February 9th, 20 third and fourth grade girls gathered with their parents and troop leaders to learn
about light pollution, energy efficiency, and how to take an active role in keeping our Arizona skies starry for all. Supported by the great education and public outreach team at the National Optical Astronomy Observatory, the girls learned how to conduct energy audits of their homes and schools, and how to light more responsibly through shielding and using energy efficient bulbs. The girls also received hands on training for data collection for the GLOBE at Night Campaign, so that each and every one of them could become a citizen scientist and contribute to research. Perhaps the favorite activity of the night was experiencing what it is like to be a sea turtle just after hatching, as they
tried to follow moonlight or starlight reflecting off the ocean and not get distracted by overwhelming lights from big box store
s and streetlights. The evening ended with the girls observing the skies through telescopes and star charts — inspiring them to protect the skies for humans and animals alike.
For more information on family STEM events, please contact Liz lbaker@girlscoutssoaz.org
