So, I’m spending column time this week talking about astronomy-oriented holiday gifting. Here’s one you might want to think about: the Astronomical Society of the Pacific.
It’s a very active supporter of astronomy and all science education. I’ve been a regular member for many years, and this year I upped my membership to a professional level. Contrary to what the name says, the group has world-wide outreach, with members in both the professional and amateur astronomy and education communities. They are a perennial favorite with educators especially because of all the workshops and online educational materials they offer. They have a pretty cool Astroshop online where you can find gifts that take you wherever you want to go as you learn (or teach others) about astronomy.
I’m a member of ASP because I support their mission to increase the public’s understanding and appreciation of astronomy. They welcome scientists, educators, enthusiasts and members of the general public — in short, anyone who supports science literacy. So, in this season of giving and paying it forward, consider joining ASP and perhaps even buying a membership for a favorite science teacher who may not know about ASP (rare, I hope – but you never know). Check ’em out!
How about a gift of dark skies? The world’s night-time skies are disappearing under clouds of light and pollution. It doesn’t have to be this way. We don’t always have to have our lights on, or at least pointing directly up into the sky. If you look at a map of Earth at night you see a planetary civilization that is declaring that it can waste money and scarce resources on lighting up the sky.
I don’t know about you, but I’m not sure we can really afford to throw precious energy resources into space as light pollution. Not when fuel prices are high and resources are limited. But, it takes a lot to educate people as to just why and how we should light our public spaces wisely. And, the International Dark-Sky Association does a LOT of educating. Their website is a treasure trove of lighting ideas and white papers and background info on best lighting practices.
They can point out how cost-effective lighting can keep public place safe without throwing away money to light up the sky and obscure the stars. If you’re looking for yet another unique gift for someone who revels in technological solutions to such problems as light pollution, then consider a membership in IDA. It doesn’t cost a lot, but you’ll be buying a whole lotta dark with your membership!
