We are a team of astrophysicists and computational scientists dedicated to making science fun and accessible to everyone.
Scientists within the Los Alamos Center for Theoretical Astrophysics participate in a variety of public outreach activities, with the goal of bringing science to a wide range of individuals and communities.
Our outreach efforts are centered on the core belief that science progresses optimally when people from a wide range of backgrounds participate and a variety of perspectives are included.
In addition to participating in one-time public events such as Hour of Code, Expanding Your Horizons, UNM's BEST Academy, local star parties, and more, we have a number of ongoing programs.
CTA scientists are engaged in a wide variety of outreach projects. Here is a selection of ongoing programs.
We make a series of visits to elementary school classrooms to do hands-on physics experiments with students. Topics include electric and magnetic forces, gravity and black holes, the electromagnetic spectrum, sound, the solar system and exoplanets, and more.
Join us virtually about once a month to discuss modern topics in astrophysics, with an emphasis on current unsolved problems and topics highlighted in the media. This is open to anyone with an interest in space.
Members of the CTA Outreach team regularly give planetarium shows at the Pajarito Environmental Education Center, covering topics from the sun and stellar evolution to black holes, exploding stars, and the multiverse.
Members of the CTA collaborate with STEMarts Lab, a worldwide outreach organization that educates youth to become changemakers through real-world opportunities, emerging technologies, and future-ready skills.
In addition to developing our own programs, CTA scientists participate in and have been supported by a number of established programs.
Our team consists of a wide variety of scientists from different groups at Los Alamos National Laboratory, but we all share a common interest: to show everyone how fun and accessible science can be.
For more information on any of our activities or to inquire about opportunities to work with our team, please use the contact information below or contact the appropriate team member directly.