Galaxien sortieren
For this game the astrophysicist Karina Rojas delved deep into the data from ESA’s space telescope Euclid. Some of these galaxies haven’t been seen before. There are different shapes, each holding information about it’s consistence, age and distance. Scientists categorize large numbers of galaxies, sometimes with the help of citizen scientists.
In this game, participants categorize galaxies, discovering the differences in shapes. They learn to observe them in detail. Of course, it is an advantage to have a scientist who knows the material leading the activity, although it can be done by anyone. There are several ways of playing the game. Be inventive.
The game is a great conversation opportunity with participants of all ages.
You are welcome to contact Karina to ask what worked best for her, or for any questions.
Galaxien sortieren
Infosheet/poster
Karina attached a small sheet in the middle of the play table and a larger version as a poster to the wall.
Image collection of galaxies
Producing the games
We used 7x7cm wooden squares for the category game and 10×10 cm ones for the memory game. We first glued the squares onto the back of the printed sheets and then cut off any overlappings.
Ein Blick ins Universum mit dem Weltraumteleskop Euclid
An introduction to the Universe, the space telescope Euclid and it’s mission, different kinds of galaxies and how they are categorized, and gravitational lenses.
These slides can be used to introduce those interested in citizen science to the activities of Galaxy Zoo and other projects around categorizing galaxies.
> Download slides ‚Ein Blick ins Universum mit dem Weltraumteleskop Euclid‘
Galaxy-themed booth for offering the activity at a public event
These materials can be borrowed at the FHNW. They fit into a minibus or even a spaceous car. The 220 cm high galaxy pannels and the shelve can be taken apart, if needed. Check out the images below to see what the booth will look like, how much material it is and how to set it up. Contact hanna.sathiapal (at) raumschiff.org.
Full booth
The booth with two play tables, a shelf with an Euclid scale model and a background panel and four galaxy panels.
Booth materials
All the materials ready for transport. The panels and the shelf can be further dismantled if needed.
Assembly 1
Asselble the tree wooden poles at the designated spots.
Assembly 2
Attach the universe image adjusting it over the magnetic bands. Use more magnets, if needed.
Assembly 4
Use four clamps to attach the shelf to the poles. Adjust the hight according to the room situation.
Assembly 5
Carefully position the installation upright, add the title and cutout images, using magnets.
Assembly 6
Set up the panel frames and attach the galaxy panels to them, using magnets. You can stabilize the installation by adding metal brackets to the feet.
Assembly 7
Set up the higher play table for the category game.
Assembly 8
Add the table top.
Assembly 9
Attach the table legs of the small table for the memory game to the table top.
full booth
Arrange everything.
Play table
Organize the play table as needed. You are done!