The wonders of astronomy have always captivated the imagination of people, earning it the nickname "the gateway science." However, for those with visual impairments, the cosmos may seem out of reach. Nevertheless, it doesn't have to be this way. Accessibility in astronomy museums is not just about catering to the blind and visually impaired (BVI) community; it's about creating immersive experiences that invite everyone on an 'out of this world' journey. In this blog, we will explore the efforts and limitations of three renowned museums in the UK - London Science Museum, Edinburgh Dynamic Earth, and Liverpool World Museum - in making astronomy accessible to all.
London's Science Museum
Within the London Science Museum lies a remarkable space exhibit, adorned with real space rockets suspended from the ceiling, offering a breathtaking visual spectacle. However, for the BVI community, the museum's accessibility remains limited. The absence of touchable objects and written plaques create barriers, hindering the visually impaired from fully engaging with the displays. But hidden within NASA's vast database of 3D printable models lies untapped potential, waiting to be harnessed to create awe-inspiring, tactile exhibits. By introducing more touchable elements throughout the museum, a multi-sensory experience can be crafted, inviting both sighted and visually impaired visitors on an unforgettable astronomical journey.
Nevertheless, London Science Museum's Wonderlab, the spirit of inclusivity comes to life. Spread across seven different zones, Wonderlab offers a myriad of opportunities to interact with real scientific phenomena. It encourages visitors to engage with exhibits not just through vision, but also sound and cognitive skills, providing a holistic and inclusive experience for all. The presence of Explainers, and professional science communicators, further enhances accessibility by providing personal guidance, explanations, and demonstrations on the gallery floor. I thought Wonderlab as a remarkable addition to science in 2023, offering hands-on interactive science through self-discovery - an exemplary model for other astronomy museums to follow.
Edinburgh's Dynamic Earth
Contrastingly, Edinburgh Dynamic Earth stands as a paragon of interactive learning, passionately devoted to inspiring visitors of all ages. The Earth Science Centre and Planetarium exemplify immersive and inclusive design, offering interactive exhibits that cater to all senses. Visitors can "feel the heat of a bubbling volcano" and experience the "chill of polar ice." While audio guides provide additional information, the museum's commitment to presenting cutting-edge scientific discoveries through interactive and immersive experiences is commendable. However, the museum could further enhance its inclusivity by incorporating the "Audio Universe" planetarium show, designed for the visually impaired to experience the stars through sound.
Liverpool's World Museum
The Liverpool World Museum promises visitors a journey that is "out of this world." Yet, the experience is limited when exhibits are trapped behind glass cabinets, hindering accessibility and interactivity. While concerns about preserving exhibits are valid, the demand for immersive experiences and accessibility is at an all-time high. Proper care and thoughtful design can allow tactile elements to coexist with priceless artefacts, creating a more inclusive environment that doesn't compromise the museum's mission. To overcome these limitations, the museum has actively shown "Audio Universe" however, it should integrate the show into its regular schedule in their Planetarium. By leveraging audio and tactile elements, museums can create inclusive experiences that allow visitors of all abilities to immerse themselves in the marvels of the universe.
Krakow's WOMAI
In the landscape of museums dedicated to inclusivity, WOMAI shines as a guiding star. Offering interactive experiences for all ages and abilities, WOMAI's attractions "Into the Light" and "Into the Darkness" provide a positively twisted perspective, celebrating the wonders of science and senses for both sighted and visually impaired visitors. Through informative live presentations and workshops, WOMAI ensures that visitors of all backgrounds can immerse themselves in an awe-inspiring journey of discovery.
WOMAI's commitment to educating the blind community sets a powerful example. Museums should prioritise inclusivity, ensuring all visitors feel valued. Together, we can ensure that science museums thrive as spaces of exploration, wonder, and inclusion for generations to come. Let's reach for the stars - together!
By taking cues from WOMAI's dedication to embracing all abilities, museums can continue to evolve into spaces of empowerment and inspiration for all visitors, regardless of their backgrounds or abilities. As we explore the wonders of science and the universe, let's look to WOMAI as a guiding star in our journey towards a more inclusive and understanding society. Together, with museums like WOMAI leading the way, we can unlock a universal universe of exploration, wonder, and inclusivity for generations to come. Let's reach for the stars - together!
Blind museum exporing the senses "WOMAI is the Center for Science and Senses, a unique place that combines two opposing worlds: light and darkness, which blind heroes and scientists perceive... The mission of the Center is to educate and make society aware of the value of the blind."- WOMAI
I believe with more research and development into tactile and audio outputs in astronomical collections science museums will begin to thrive, inviting all kinds of people with all abilities to explore through all our senses and not limiting our abilities to the sense of sight.
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