Outreach
I'm passionate about sharing my excitement for astrophysics and computational science with broader audiences through outreach initiatives.
Current Initiatives
Astronony on Tap - Lansing: science at a bar near you!
First, the sales pitch: "Astronomy is even better with beer — come learn how scientists explore the universe at a bar near you! This FREE event features accessible, engaging science presentations on topics ranging from planets to black holes to the beginning of the Universe. Presenters are from local research and educational institutions like Michigan State University. We will have a trivia game to test your astronomy knowledge and space-themed raffle prizes! There will also be lots of time to ask questions and interact with the presenters and other scientists who tag along for the beer."
Now, the backstory: Back in 2015, I decided that I would combine two of my passions, drinking craft beer and talking about astronomy. Thanks to an unplanned extra-long layover in the Los Angeles airport in March of 2015, I got to pick the brain of Emily Rice, the primary orgnizer for Astronomy on Tap Headquarters based in NYC. At the time there were only a handle of Astronomy on Tap events happening around the country and as I learned about how the events worked and the motivation behind them, I decided that I absolutely had to bring this program to the greater Lansing area. The unique part about Astronomy on Tap is that it's outreach targeted at adults (who often have limited education opportunities that don't require tuition dollars) in a low-stakes, relaxed environment (a bar!).
Each of our Lansing events involve two 15-minute TED-style talks given by local (or visiting) astronomers and astrophysicists on astronomy topics of interest. We also generate trivia questions based on the topics of the evening so that the audience can test their new-found knowledge and enter to win fun astronomy-themed raffles. At the end of the night, we feature MSU scientists (grad students, postdocs, and faculty) by holding an open Q&A sessions where audience members get to ask their burning astronomy questions and have them answered by the experts.
For up-to-date information on our upcoming events, check out our page on astronomyontap.org or follow us on Facebook or Instagram. You can also subscribe to our newsletter.
General Public Engagement
I believe in working to make science accessible to everyone by participating in a variety of preexisting outreach activities, including:
- Science festivals
- Public presentations at informal educational settings (planetariums, libraries, community centers, etc.)
- School visits and K-12 presentations
Mentorship
I strive to provide support for the next generation of computational thinkers:
- Undergraduate research mentorship
- Graduate student advising
- Career guidance for students interested in computational fields
Get Involved
Are you interested in bringing computational ideas or astrophysics topics to your school or organization? I'd love to hear from you!
For Schools: I offer presentations and workshops tailored to different grade levels.
For Organizations: I can provide talks and demonstrations for community groups, libraries, and other organizations.
For Students: If you're interested in getting involved in any of my outreach initiatives, please reach out.
Contact me at dsilvia@msu.edu to discuss collaboration opportunities.