"Stars on Earth" is an innovative inclusive science outreach initiative, allowing people with visual and hearing disabilities to "touch the stars" as well.
Thanks to the project, a three-dimensional tactile scale model of a particle accelerator has been created, which can be disassembled and explored in all its parts. The model is also accompanied by in-depth multimedia material (video), consisting of five educational videos in sign language, created with the advice of the National Association of the Deaf, and some tactile sheets that explain key research concepts to blind people.
The project, carried out by the DFA and funded by the University of Padua, involves the collaboration of numerous partners: Municipality of Padua, Italian Union of the Blind and Visually Impaired of Padua (UICI), National Association of the Deaf (ENS), Hollman Foundation, Padua Planetarium, National Institute of Nuclear Physics (INFN).

"We are extremely satisfied with the results achieved" says Antonio Caciolli, project coordinator. "'Stars on Earth' has demonstrated that science can and must be inclusive. Our goal was to break down the barriers that often limit access to scientific knowledge, and the enthusiastic response from the public confirms that we are on the right track. We do thank the collaboration of the associations that have supported us on this journey together."

"This project perfectly represents our Department's mission of enhancing knowledge," adds Flavio Seno, director of the Department of Physics and Astronomy. "Not only producing high-level research but also making it accessible to the entire society. 'Stars on Earth' is part of a path we began last year with the project 'Science from the Islamic world to Europe today' and that we will continue in 2025 with the new project 'Models: a journey through disciplines and cultures'."

Learn more about the project at https://www.dfa.unipd.it/stellesullaterra/