Astronomy project brings telescopes to Brazilian public
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Rodrigo Fernandes, a former researcher from Fiocruz in Brazil, launched the “Astronomy. Science on the Street” project in Pouso Alegre, Minas Gerais, to bring telescopes and hands-on astronomy activities to public spaces.
Fernandes, who holds a doctorate in medicine from Shanghai University in China, shifted his focus from health to education with the goal of making science accessible outside of traditional university settings. The project aims to combat misinformation and scientific illiteracy by providing direct experiences with astronomy.
Fernandes believes this work is akin to saving lives, because it helps people distinguish between reliable science and unfounded claims from the internet. He recalled one man crying after seeing Saturn through a telescope for the first time, saying the man never expected such an opportunity. Beyond public viewings, “Astronomy. Science on the Street” also runs free astronomy workshops in public schools.
Fernandes challenges the idea that students in public and rural schools lack interest in science, explaining that they simply need access and engaging educational projects. He builds his own telescopes and offers free online courses for educators, sustaining the project through volunteer work and partnerships since it receives no direct government funding.
