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  • 3D printing for teaching and exploration in astronomy for individuals with blindness/visual impairment: textured representations of imagery

This content will become publicly available on April 3, 2026

Title: 3D printing for teaching and exploration in astronomy for individuals with blindness/visual impairment: textured representations of imagery
Astronomy, a captivating field that draws upon science, mathematics, and engineering, has traditionally relied on visual representations to convey the wonders of the cosmos. While this approach effectively engages the sighted population, the use of imagery can exclude individuals with blindness or visual impairment (B/VI). Astronomical research is incorporated into press releases, media, outreach efforts, and educational systems aimed at enhancing public interest and often skill in science, but visual materials can hamper a population with B/VI. This paper explores the potential of 3D printing as an assistive technology providing an alternative to imagery. We produced textured 3D prints of astronomical research data from the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). Usability assessment of materials is an important phase of production before integration into structured programs, and we used a multi-phased approach in our prior research to create and test appropriate textures for 3D astronomical prints. This paper describes the last step of reviewing our 3D prints through informal usability sessions with diverse individuals. The assessment indicated our 3D prints provide reliable, informative representations of astronomical data appropriate for public use especially for public information, outreach programs, and science education for individuals with B/VI.  more » « less
Award ID(s):
1949458
PAR ID:
10627811
Author(s) / Creator(s):
; ; ; ;
Publisher / Repository:
Taylor & Francis Online
Date Published:
Journal Name:
International Journal of Science Education, Part B
Volume:
15
Issue:
2
ISSN:
2154-8455
Page Range / eLocation ID:
304 to 324
Subject(s) / Keyword(s):
astronomy teaching education 3D printing blind visual impairment public interest
Format(s):
Medium: X
Sponsoring Org:
National Science Foundation
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