Astronomy, a natural science that explores anything beyond Earth, is an important field that uses math, physics, engineering, and other sciences to explain elements of the universe and our cosmos. The field of astronomy, along with the study of space as a whole, is one with great significance due to its continuous study of our world. Unfortunately, the STEM field has underrepresented groups, like women, who make up less than 30% of the career and are commonly dominated by a specific population, leaving many communities out of the study. With this, I have found a great interest in nonprofits fighting to bridge the inequality in the field and make astronomy more accessible to younger or underrepresented populations.
For example, Astronomy For Equity provides education in astronomy and astrophysics for underprivileged communities. To unite less fortunate communities through astronomy resources and educational programs, Astronomy For Equity continuously makes astronomy accessible; through fostering a love of astronomy through education in stem fields, Astronomy for Equity encourages kids, young adults, and more in marginalized communities to pursue fields of science. By promoting STEM to young people who are less commonly represented in these fields, Astronomy for Equity provides opportunities for students to engage in science or math fields. I am impressed with the A4E campaign in Ukraine, where students have been pushed to continue learning through exploring astronomy, even without power, A4E has provided telescopes and other astronomical devices, helping young people foster new interests, especially during a hard time.
Similarly, the nonprofit Reach for the Stars encourages young people to find futures in astronomy and STEM learning, significantly lowering rates of stress and depression in youth. Reach for the Stars feels that with a mental health crisis, young adults and children need an outlet to foster futures. With astronomy or any study of space, many can explore and think creatively while learning about the application of STEM. Currently, RFTS centers around youth programming, camps, stargazing, and solar exploration, which has affected many youth around the United States for the better. During a time when many youth and young adults experience mental health struggles, providing a place to explore our world and utilize natural sciences will not only benefit the mental health of our youth but will also benefit the future of astronomy!
Lastly, the Stellar Dreams Program, run by the nonprofit organization Science Haven, is trying to make the studies of astronomy, astrophysics, and physics accessible to underprivileged and underrepresented communities. With a decrease in the study of these careers, the program is continually fighting to fix the “staggering disparity by fueling 100 dreams.” With donations, the program provides every student with a telescope, opportunities to participate in ongoing scientific research, general knowledge in telescope use, astronomy, and more. I think that by having an example of a program that provides education for students who are interested in the less popular career, the future of STEM can be even more strong and diverse.
In Orbit 