As children gaze at the cosmos, their natural curiosity often leads them to question the wonders above: the sun, the moon, the stars, and the constellations that adorn the inky sky.
Now, thanks to a new illustrated booklet titled Tuning into the Universe, their inquiries may find satisfying answers. This free-to-download resource, aimed at learners in Grades 4 to 6, is set to launch on October 12, in celebration of Astronomy Day.
Puleng Tsie, manager of Sci-Enza, a centre within the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences at the University of Pretoria, highlighted the booklet's appeal, asserting that it is not just for children in the targeted age group, but can also captivate older and younger audiences, including adults alike.
“The teams at Sci-Enza and South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (Sarao) understand the importance of inspiring the next generation of astronomers,” Tsie stated. “By engaging learners today, we lay the groundwork for the scientists of tomorrow.”
The initiative is a collaborative effort between Sci-Enza and the Sarao, which funded the booklet's development. Tsie and Marion West, Sarao’s science engagement coordinator, combined their expertise to create a resource that not only informs but also ignites curiosity about the universe.
Among the highlights of the booklet are insights into South Africa’s mega telescopes, Southern African Large Telescope and MeerKAT, which serve as gateways to understand our universe and the groundbreaking research being conducted with them. The Southern African Large Telescope, located in Sutherland, is renowned as the largest optical telescope in the southern hemisphere.
Capable of discerning a candle on the moon, it plays a crucial role in unraveling the mysteries of the cosmos. SALT's recent contributions include aiding in the discovery of a rare white dwarf binary star system, shedding light on the powerful explosions that characterise dying stars.</p>
Meanwhile, MeerKAT, a sophisticated radio telescope comprising 64 antennas located near Carnarvon, offers a different perspective. It enables scientists to observe phenomena from the birth of stars to the enigmatic centre of the Milky Way. This year, MeerKAT astounded the scientific community with an image revealing 49 previously unknown galaxies, further affirming South Africa's vital contribution to global astronomy.</p>
The booklet does more than just explain telescopes; it paints a broader picture of astronomy as a career path by introducing readers to individuals working in the field. “By showcasing the stories of South African astronomers and their captivating work, we aim to inspire learners to consider careers in this exciting field,” Tsie added.
Aware of the need for accessibility, Tsie and West have ensured that Tuning into the Universe will be downloadable for free, enabling schools and families to print copies for wider distribution. “We are aiming to reach millions of children with this resource,” Tsie stated, referencing the effort to print a number of physical copies for distribution at science centres across all nine provinces.
In addition to the booklet, Sci-Enza is enhancing its outreach through a mobile planetarium, allowing students to immerse themselves in astronomy shows projected onto a large inflatable dome. With substantial support from the national Department of Science and Innovation, the planetarium has engaged thousands of learners across Tshwane, and plans are in motion to extend its reach into rural areas, contingent on securing additional funding.
“Schools are welcome to visit the Sci-Enza planetarium at the University, or they can book it for their groups or family celebrations,” Tsie encouraged, highlighting the interactive learning opportunities available.