Educational Resources for Teachers

The TAAA provides educational experiences for people of all ages. Our mission is to share the joy and excitement of astronomy through observing, education, and fun. We do this through the following programs available to classroom teachers and not-for-profit organizations.

Community Star Parties

Our members volunteer their time and telescopes for star parties throughout the Tucson area. Each year, we reach approximately 10,000 people through our Community Star Party Program. These star parties are typically held for school groups but any not-for-profit organization may request an star party. There is no charge for this service, but donations are always appreciated.

We need at least 6 weeks notice. Events are scheduled on a first come basis. Since we depend on volunteers for this program, we can only accommodate a limited number of events per month, so make your request early. A year's notice is not uncommon. Learn more about requesting a star party through our School Star Party Schedule Coordinator.

Mark Meanings
Phone: 520-826-2473
Email: school-star-party [at] tucsonastronomy.org
Star Party Request Form and Instructions [DOC]

Night Sky Network Outreach Toolkits

The TAAA is a charter member of NASA's Night Sky Network which supports amateur astronomers with their outreach programs. Under contract with NASA, the Astronomical Society of the Pacific has developed a series of Night Sky Network Toolkits that amateur astronomers can use at star parties. Kits consist of several hands-on activities centered on a particular theme.

There is no cost for these activites, but donations to cover material expenses are greatly appreciated. To arrange for a hands-on activity, either as part of a star party or as a separate event, contact our Night Sky Network Coordinator.

Terri Lappin
Email: smsig[at]tucsonastronomy.org

Night Sky Network Toolkits

• Planet Quest: Explains planet detection techniques

• Our Galaxy, Our Universe: Scale model of the Milky Way galaxy and the Universe

• Black Hole Survival Kit: Explains gravity and black holes

• Telescopes – Eyes on the Universe: Explains basic principles of optics, the human eye, and observing

• Shadows and Silhouettes: Lunar phases, eclipses, and transits

• Exploring the Solar System: Scale model of solar system and NASA exploration of planets

• Mirrors and Glass – An inside look at telescopes: How telescopes work

• Dark Skies Education Kit: Light pollution principles

• Supernova! Life cycle of massive stars, comparison to life cycle of sun-like stars

• Solar Scope (DAYTIME ONLY): Provides a white light image of the sun suitable for small group viewing.

Materials For Classroom Use

The TAAA has a 12" diameter Moon Globe available to K-12 teachers for use in their classroom while teaching about the moon. To borrow the globe, contact smsig[at]tucsonastronomy.org. A deposit is required which will be returned upon return of the globe in original condition.

Additional School Projects and Resources

Night Sky Network

Are you a Project Astro School?
This program partners astronomers and teachers for learning.

Benefits include free instructional materials for teachers, in addition to one-on-one support from a trained astronomer.

Download Project Astro Brochure

Visit the Astro Tucson website for additional information and resources.

Project Astro is an educational outreach program of the National Optical Astronomy Observatory (NOAO).