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Lorem Ipsum Dolor Spring 2016
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After returning to school, we again used the Tiger embosser and translated
additional SOFIA infrared images of the Orion constellation and the black
hole at our galactic center into tactile graphics that allowed our students to
explore star formation and the acceleration of stellar matter as it is swallowed
by a black hole.
We were able to share and explore these tactile images with over 300
students from around the country and Canada as we hosted a live online
learning event on March 23 in which students from 11 schools for the blind
were able to interact with one another, ask questions and talk with NASA
astronomers about SOFIA and infrared astronomy. Though it was
challenging gathering everyone from all of the time zones at once, we were
able to provide a unique and informative learning experience specifically for
our students with visual impairments. Not only did the students appreciate it,
but they clearly expressed a desire to do more of this type of learning.
There are many challenges that must be met to further increase access to
astronomy and infrared astronomy for our students. As we continue to work
towards this accessibility, our students will ultimately benefit as opportunities
to study the universe will be at their fingertips.
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