Photo credit: science.nasa.gov

Exploring the Wonders of Rocket Science and Auroras in Fairbanks

On January 28th, 2024, Fairbanks BEST Homeschool partnered with the Geophysical Institute for an engaging afternoon dedicated to rocket science and celestial phenomena. This community event, open to all and free of charge, successfully attracted around 200 participants despite the cold winter conditions. Attendees were eager to learn about significant research initiatives undertaken by both local Alaskan scientists and NASA rocket experts.

During the event, families and friends delved into two exciting NASA rocket missions designed to investigate the transient nature of auroras. The missions, Ground Imaging to Rocket investigation of Auroral Fast Features (GIRAFF) and Black and Diffuse Aurora Science Surveyor (BaDASS), were highlighted for their innovative approaches to understanding these natural displays. Participants were given the opportunity to subscribe for updates on the launch schedule, enhancing their engagement with the scientific process. The planetarium sessions included discussions on key concepts in heliophysics, directly addressing NASA’s vital research questions:

• What are the effects of solar changes on humanity?
• How do Earth, its solar environment, and the heliosphere respond to solar fluctuations?
• What factors contribute to variations in solar activity?

Additionally, the event featured interactive sun-related activities conducted by the University of Alaska Museum of the North, allowing participants to engage in hands-on learning experiences.

This gathering was organized as part of the Science For Alaska Lecture Series and the 2025 NASA Sounding Rocket campaign. Attendees left the event inspired and equipped with knowledge about auroras. For those looking to dive deeper into the study of these phenomena, parents and educators were encouraged to explore NASA’s Aurorasaurus, a citizen science project dedicated to aurora research and community involvement.

Furthermore, the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks plays a crucial role as a co-investigating team within the NASA Heliophysics Education Activation Team (NASA HEAT), part of NASA’s broader Science Activation Portfolio. This collaboration fosters connections between NASA experts and community leaders, aiming to enhance public understanding of scientific principles and the universe. More details about these initiatives can be found at NASA’s educational portal: Learn More.

For additional resources on auroras, interested parties can refer to the Aurora Educational Resource List by Aurorasaurus.

Source
science.nasa.gov