ASTROKINEGLYPH
ASTRO-KINE-GLYPH
ASTRO - Astronomy
KINE - Kinetic (resulting from movement)
GLYPH - A symbol or character
About
ASTROKINEGLYPH is a groundbreaking project that seeks to transform astronomy into a truly inclusive and multisensory experience for the blind and visually impaired (BVI) community. By combining the tactile sense of touch with the auditory dimension of sound, this initiative aims to bridge the gap between the cosmos and individuals with visual impairments, opening up new avenues for exploration and engagement.
Purpose
ASTROKINEGLYPH is a precedent-setter, forging the way for multisensory accessible astronomy across UK science events. Beyond exploring the cosmos, this project cultivates wonder, empowerment, and connection for those who might have felt excluded. ASTROKINEGLYPH isn't just a project; it's a journey reshaping the universe's accessibility.
Outcomes
Through dedicated workshops tailored for the visually impaired, ASTROKINEGLYPH has already made an impact, captivating audiences at various UK festivals in 2023. These workshops offer a unique blend of tactile astronomy models and auditory cosmic representations, delivering an immersive experience.​​
Innovation extends to my prototypes, which experiment with touch, sound, and their fusion. These prototypes lay the groundwork for the ASTROKINEGLYPH learning tool, poised for integration into the World Museum Planetarium. This marks a new chapter in accessible astronomy education, promising enriching experiences for the visually impaired community and beyond.​​
​Can the combination of tactile and sonic experiences facilitate greater accessibility to astronomical phenomena for the blind and visually impaired?
Aims
- To explore limitations of public engagement within science-related events such as museums and festivals
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-To create an interactive workshop to encourage the engagement of astronomical data through touch.
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-To create a learning tool for blind and visually impaired audiences that uses both touch and sound to explore astronomical data.