BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//CERN//INDICO//EN BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O04 - AI-Assisted Astronomy Outreach DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T031500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-909@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Avivah Yamani (langitselatan)\nAstronomy communicato rs are expected to create articles\, social media posts\, videos\, podcast s\, and educational materials for different audiences\, often while workin g in small teams with limited time and resources. Artificial intelligence (AI) offers new ways to support this work\, but it also brings new challen ges\, especially in multilingual settings where scientific terminology and local context matter.\n\nThis presentation explores how AI can be used as a communication assistant rather than a replacement for people. It can he lp summarize scientific papers\, adapt content for different platforms\, d raft scripts\, improve readability\, and generate ideas for educational ma terials\, making it easier for small outreach teams to create content in a variety of formats.\n\nAt the same time\, AI has clear limitations. It ma y translate scientific concepts too literally\, use inconsistent astronomy terminology\, or lose important meaning when adapting content into Bahasa Indonesia and other regional languages. It can also oversimplify research or produce scientifically inaccurate information. These are reminders tha t AI-generated content should always be checked before it is shared with t he public.\n\nThe presentation introduces a practical workflow in which AI supports routine tasks while communicators remain responsible for choosin g reliable sources\, checking scientific accuracy\, using consistent termi nology\, and making the final editorial decisions. Drawing on practical ex perience from independent astronomy outreach projects in Indonesia\, the t alk shares lessons that can be adapted by planetariums\, astronomy clubs\, educators\, and outreach organizations across Southeast Asia. The goal is not to replace people with AI\, but to show how AI can help small teams c ommunicate astronomy more efficiently while maintaining accuracy\, local r elevance\, and audience trust.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/con tributions/909/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/909/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:K05 - Communicating Astronomy with the Public DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T012000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T014000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-890@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Jose Francisco Aguilar ()\nWe now live in very chall enging times\, where mainstream scientific views and methods are being que stioned in social media and replaced by unproven and misleading theories t o serve commercial and political interests. In the face of anti-science at tacks\, astronomy\, with its universal appeal and scientific outlook\, can be used as an effective and powerful medium to educate the people on scie ntific thinking. Thankfully in the Philippines\, the proliferation and act ive participation of various Philippine amateur astronomical societies had contributed to the promotion and popularization of astronomy to the gener al public. In promoting astronomy and science to the public\, we can culti vate scientific and critical thinking for our countrymen and make them ask questions on how and why things happen\, and enable them to effect change and hopefully achieve real progress.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/ 238/contributions/890/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/890/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O20 - 12 Years of the NARIT 10-Inch Dobsonian Telescope Project: F rom Astronomy School Networks to a Sustainable Astronomical Activity Ecosy stem DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T024500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T030000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-884@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Khomsan Thuree (NARIT - National Astronomical Resear ch Institute of Thailand (Public Organization))\nThe 10-inch Dobsonian Tel escope Distribution Project\, initiated by the National Astronomical Resea rch Institute of Thailand (Public Organization) or NARIT\, marks its 12th anniversary in 2026\, having successfully provided astronomical infrastruc ture to over 760 network schools nationwide. Beyond the provision of equip ment\, the project strongly emphasizes knowledge transfer through comprehe nsive training on telescope installation\, operation\, and fundamental obs ervational skills. This approach enables educational institutions to effec tively integrate astronomy into both classroom instruction and extracurric ular activities.\n\nOver the past 12 years\, the initiative has yielded su bstantial outcomes\, evolving from a centralized network into self-sustain ing regional and provincial sub-networks. These collaborative groups proac tively organize public observations of significant astronomical phenomena and conduct fundamental astronomy research projects\, such as utilizing to tal lunar eclipses to observe the parallax of background stars. Furthermor e\, the network facilitates inter-school resource pooling\, demonstrated b y joint astronomy camps and active participation in NARIT’s Dark Sky Cam paign.\n\nThe sustained impact and achievements of this growing network ar e annually showcased at the Conference on Astronomy Activities in Schools (CAAS). This conference serves as a dynamic academic platform for network schools to exchange pedagogical experiences and best practices\, while als o inviting non-network schools to participate and learn. This paper summar izes the project's developmental milestones\, illustrating its successful transformation from basic equipment provision to the establishment of a ro bust\, sustainable\, and nationwide ecosystem for astronomical education a nd public outreach.\n\nKeywords: Dobsonian Telescope\, Astronomy School Ne twork\, Astronomy Education\, Collaborative Learning\, NARIT\, CAAS\n\nhtt ps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/884/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/884/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:K07 - Astronomy as the Leader of Inter- and Multi-Disciplinary Sci ences DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T010000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T012000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-1001@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Areg Mickaelian (Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory) \nThe importance of Astronomy grows up with new discoveries related not on ly to Astronomy itself\, but also Physics\, Chemistry\, Biology\, Geology and many other natural sciences\, as well as Computer Science. Astronomy b ecomes a science providing Big Data from the Universe to enrich our knowle dge in many fields. Many interdisciplinary sciences have appeared and deve loped based and/or related to Astronomy: Astrophysics (since the end of th e XIX century\, one of the first ever Interdisciplinary Sciences)\, Astroc hemistry\, Astrobiology (or Bioastronomy)\, Planetary Science (“Astrogeo logy”)\, Astroinformatics\, Archaeoastronomy\, etc. Each interdisciplina ry science will be presented and discussed in short. In addition\, Astrono my is always present in multidisciplinary fields\, such as the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI)\, Big Data\, Data Science\, Space Sci ences and Technologies\, etc.\, as well as transdisciplinary approach in s cience. Among the IAU Divisions coordinating the Astronomy by areas\, one half have pure astronomical/astrophysical subjects and another half have i nterdisciplinary nature (ex. Division B: Facilities\, Technologies and Dat a Science\, Division D: High Energy Phenomena and Fundamental Physics\, Di vision F: Planetary Systems and Astrobiology). IAU Strategic Plans 2011-20 20 and then 2021-2030 also have a special emphasis on Astronomy for the de velopment of interdisciplinary sciences and this is one of the main goals for the IAU Regional Offices of Astronomy for Development (ROADs). Armenia hosts one of the ROADs (South West and Central Asia\, SWCA) and is heavil y involved in interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary activities as well. Collaboration between two ROADs\, SWCA and South East Asia (SEA)\, in this area may be rather efficient.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/con tributions/1001/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/1001/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:K11 - Cosmic Encounter: When Space Rocks Become Extraordinary DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T080000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T081500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-992@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Mar Christian Cruz (National Museum of the Philippin es)\nMeteorites are among the oldest materials that humanity can physicall y encounter. Formed during the early history of the Solar System and trave led across space before reaching our planet\, these extraterrestrial mater ials provide a tangible connection between Earth and other celestial bodie s. The growing meteorite collection of the National Museum of the Philippi nes (NMP)\, as well as the dedication of the private meteorite-collecting community\, allows this connection to extend beyond display cases and tran slate into meaningful public engagements.\n\n“Cosmic Encounter” explor es how meteorites can become effective tools for promoting space science b y sharing the extraordinary stories contained within seemingly ordinary ro cks. Their worth transcends monetary value\, as every specimen can represe nt scientific discovery\, a historical record\, or an opportunity to spark curiosity.\n\nThrough exhibitions\, research projects\, and outreach prog rams\, the NMP and its partners continue to make space rocks more accessib le to diverse audiences. From a meteoritical perspective\, this fusion of geology and astronomy offers a multidisciplinary approach to understanding not only the cosmic environment surrounding us\, but also the processes o f our dynamic world. Moreover\, the roles of the NMP in preserving and con serving meteorites as part of the country’s scientific heritage\, togeth er with its future initiatives for advancing the field of meteoritics in t he Philippines\, will also form part of the presentation.\n\nUltimately\, the keynote seeks to demonstrate that small fragments from space can make significant impacts when they are understood and shared. In this sense\, t here is beauty in things that people may initially consider unnecessary.\n \nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/992/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/992/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O52 - Mapping Astronomy Engagement Opportunities in the Philippine s: A National Baseline Assessment of Availability\, Distribution\, and Des criptive Accessibility DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T070000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T071500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-898@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Cindy Lou Macahilos (Xperthink: Science on the Go | Former Research Intern - National Astrononomical Research Institute of Tha iland (NARIT))\nEquitable access to astronomy engagement opportunities is essential for promoting scientific literacy\, public participation in scie nce\, and sustained interest in science\, technology\, engineering\, and m athematics (STEM). However\, despite the continued growth of astronomy com munication initiatives in the Philippines\, the national distribution\, in stitutional landscape\, and accessibility characteristics of these opportu nities remain poorly documented. The absence of a consolidated national ba seline limits evidence-based planning for astronomy education\, outreach d evelopment\, and inclusive public engagement.\nThis study developed a veri fied national inventory of publicly documented astronomy engagement opport unities in the Philippines and examined their availability\, geographic di stribution\, institutional characteristics\, and descriptive accessibility . Publicly available records from government agencies\, higher education i nstitutions\, astronomy organizations\, science centers\, and institutiona l sources were collected and verified during the study period. Opportuniti es were classified into four functional groups: fixed-site infrastructure\ , formal education\, organizations\, and programs and activities. Descript ive statistics\, cross-tabulation\, and Geographic Information System (GIS )-based spatial analysis were used to characterize national patterns\, whi le descriptive accessibility was assessed through public access\, cost\, a ppointment requirements\, operational status\, and implementation frequenc y.\nA total of 36 verified astronomy engagement opportunities were identif ied\, consisting of fixed-site infrastructure (n=10)\, formal education pr ograms (n=4)\, organizations (n=7)\, and programs and activities (n=15). R esults reveal substantial geographic concentration\, with the National Cap ital Region accounting for 55.6% of documented opportunities and represent ing the only region with all four analytical groups. Although most opportu nities were publicly accessible and offered free or low-cost participation \, access to sustained astronomy engagement remains uneven\, particularly outside major urban centers where permanent facilities\, formal educationa l pathways\, and locally based organizations are less represented.\nThis s tudy establishes a national baseline for understanding the astronomy commu nication ecosystem in the Philippines and provides evidence to support inc lusive astronomy education\, regional outreach strategies\, and more equit able public engagement initiatives.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/23 8/contributions/898/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/898/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O49 - JUST LOOK UP: ASTRONOMY NIGHTS AS A MODEL FOR EXPERIENTIAL S CIENCE DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T061500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T063000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-907@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Rey Niño Baguio (Mr)\nFor nearly three decades\, As tronomy Night at the Philippine Science High School (PSHS) Main Campus has been an overnight observational astronomy event integrated into the schoo l's Earth Science program. Though never mandated by curriculum\, it has ru n almost without interruption\, missing only two years during the pandemic . Each year\, students spend a night mapping the sky and using telescopes to view celestial bodies. The night closes with the same ritual every time : a short narration of how people before them once looked up at the same s ky and wondered\, then the whole batch lying together on the school field\ , looking up in silence.\nReflections gathered from batches of roughly 240 students year on year reveal a consistent pattern. While the night is str uctured around learning\, what stays with students is its least instructio nal moment: lying on the field\, looking up. It produces curiosity\, wonde r\, and reflection on scale and place\, often as students' first experienc e under a genuinely dark sky.\nIn recent years\, PSHS has translated core elements of this design (field-lying observation\, telescope use\, and an accessible sky-watching lecture) into a shorter\, one-time program for vis iting school groups. The translation necessarily strips away what a 30-yea r curricular program offers that a single evening cannot: instructional de pth\, repeated exposure\, and a trained peer-mentor pipeline. What appears to survive the translation is the awe response itself. Visiting students\ , most with far less astronomy background than PSHS's own\, seem to respon d to the same invitation to look up with comparable curiosity and wonder. This suggests the mechanism may not depend on prior knowledge\, only on an open\, unhurried invitation to notice.\nWe present this translation as a case study in design portability: what a program built for one institution 's specific conditions retains\, and loses\, when adapted for institutions without that history. We argue the field-lying moment functions as curios ity made physically visible\, an immediate and universally legible prompt in the night sky itself. That makes it a low-barrier\, highly replicable m odel for planetariums\, science centers\, and outreach programs seeking to diversify and extend their audience reach\, regardless of their own insti tutional depth or resources.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contr ibutions/907/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/907/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O48 - Multidisciplinary Visualization for Thai Space Science Commu nication DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T060000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T061500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-906@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Nattanon Dungsunenarn (Spaceth.co)\nBetween 2020 and 2026\, Thailand has made significant progress in the development of satel lites\, scientific payloads\, and spacecraft missions. As the number and c omplexity of these projects continue to grow\, one challenge becomes incre asingly important: how can engineers and scientists communicate their miss ions to the public in a way that is accurate\, engaging\, and easy to unde rstand?\n\nSpaceth originated as a media outlet\, but its role has gradual ly expanded toward bridging the gap between engineering teams and the publ ic. One recurring problem is the lack of high-quality visual assets\, incl uding accurate 3D models\, technical illustrations\, animations\, and reus able media materials. Drawing inspiration from the visualization practices of NASA and ESA\, Spaceth has adapted similar approaches for Thai space m issions by combining scientific accuracy with visual storytelling.\n\nThis presentation examines three case studies: MESSE sub-orbital mission\, TIG ERS-X ISS mission\, and MATCH aboard the Chang’e-7 lunar mission. Althou gh these missions differ in scale and scientific objectives\, their commun ication strategies share several common elements: 2D and 3D visualization\ , a clear mission narrative beyond the traditional press release\, and the development of assets for both owned media and earned media. Together\, t hese elements help transform a scientific payload from a technical object into a story that the public\, journalists\, educators\, and stakeholders can understand and share.\n\nThe presentation also explores how scientists and engineers can work effectively with 3D artists\, illustrators\, anima tors\, designers\, and other multidisciplinary experts. It discusses the c ommon ground between technical and creative teams\, the information artist s need from engineers\, and practical workflows for maintaining both scien tific accuracy and visual clarity.\n\nFinally\, Spaceth will introduce a c ommunication playbook for space missions\, designed to help mission teams plan their visual assets\, narrative\, media materials\, and public commun ication from the early stages of development. The central argument is simp le: mission communication should not begin after the spacecraft is finishe d. It should be designed as part of the mission itself.\n\nhttps://indico. narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/906/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/906/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O45 - Building a Sustainable Dark Sky Movement in the Philippines: An Organizational Development Framework for Advancing Dark Sky Conservati on DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T063000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T064500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-919@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Martine Joy Irog (DarkSky International)\nArtificial light at night poses significant challenges to astronomy\, biodiversity\, human health\, and cultural heritage\, yet the Philippines currently lack s a coordinated national initiative for dark sky conservation. This study aims to develop an organizational framework for establishing and expanding a Philippine DarkSky chapter during its first year of operation. Using an action research approach\, the study documents the processes of stakehold er engagement\, partnership building\, volunteer recruitment\, public outr each\, and strategic planning through organizational records\, interviews\ , surveys\, and activity evaluations. It examines the opportunities and ch allenges of building a sustainable\, community-driven movement for dark sk y conservation while fostering collaborations among government agencies\, academic institutions\, environmental organizations\, and local communitie s. The study is expected to identify key organizational strategies and bes t practices for sustaining dark sky initiatives in the Philippines. The re sulting framework will provide practical guidance for emerging DarkSky cha pters and contribute to broader efforts in environmental conservation\, sc ience communication\, and the preservation of natural night skies.\n\nhttp s://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/919/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/919/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O44 - Raising Dark Sky tourism and Light pollution awareness : The Amazing Dark Sky in Thailand DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T061500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T063000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-920@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Farprakay Jiarakoopt (NARIT)\nSince 2021\, over 110 sites in Thailand have been designated as dark sky areas by the National A stronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT). In addition to the foc us on preserving pristine and pollution-free sky\, Amazing Dark Sky in Tha iland project also focus on the raising awareness on the issue of light po llution and promoting “Dark Sky tourism” as an engine for sustainable socio-economic development. To support these goals NARIT also launches oth er programs aimed to compliment these effort. The "astro guide" training p rogram seek to train\, evaluate\, and certify astronomy outreach personnel s that will operate in these dark sky areas that is vital to the sustainab ility of the tourism of the dark sky preserves. In order to promote the da rk sky projects and raising awareness in the public sector\, "Dark Sky Sta r Party" are held annually receiving around 2\,000-3\,000 visitors. The su ccess of this program is a testament to how public institution can play a privotal role in promotion dark sky awareness and bring economical develop ment to rural areas via astrotourism.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/ 238/contributions/920/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/920/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:K08 - Smart Telescope System in Astronomy Education DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T012000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T014000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-997@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Christopher Go ()\nDuring the last 3 years\, afforda ble Smart Robotic Astronomical Imaging Systems have appeared in the market . These easy-to-use systems allow beginners to control a telescope system with a mobile phone or tablet and start imaging in as short as 5 minutes. These systems (ZWO Seestar and Celestron Origin) were use in an Astronomy Elective class at the University of San Carlos. This allows the students t o image galaxies\, nebulae\, star clusters\, etc. This workshop will discu ss on how these systems work and how they can be used in Astronomy Educati on.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/997/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/997/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O40 - A Place-Based Youth Astronomy Camp in Khon Kaen\, Thailand: Connecting Astronomy with Local Dinosaur Heritage DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T031500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T033000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-886@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Kewalin Thongpoyai (Regional Observatory for the Pub lic\, Khon Kaen)\nInspiring youth to pursue astronomy requires authentic l earning experiences that combine hands-on practice with meaningful connect ions to the local context. Such an approach helps make science more access ible\, engaging\, and relevant to learners. Based on this concept\, the Re gional Observatory for the Public\, Khon Kaen (ROP-KKN)\, under the Nation al Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT)\, has developed a y outh astronomy camp that integrates astronomy education with the unique ge ological heritage of Khon Kaen Province.\n The Khon Kaen Youth Cam p (KYC) is a three-day\, two-night astronomy camp held annually in Khon Ka en Province for Thai youth aged 15–19 years from across the country. The camp aims to inspire young people to pursue astronomy\, increase their in terest in the field\, broaden participants' awareness of astronomy-related careers\, and provide authentic learning experiences through night sky ob servations and hands-on use of astronomical equipment. A distinctive featu re of the camp is the integration of astronomy activities with Khon Kaen's dinosaur heritage\, including field-based learning at one of Thailand's i mportant dinosaur excavation sites. Together\, these activities create an interdisciplinary learning environment that connects Earth and space scien ces.\n Over the past two years\, the camp has attracted strong int erest from students nationwide\, receiving more than 100 applications annu ally while accepting only 50 participants each year. Although the first y ear faced challenges related to activity design and unfavorable weather co nditions\, participant feedback collected through post-camp evaluations wa s used to improve the program in the following year. Major improvements in cluded replacing a museum visit with field learning at a dinosaur excavati on site and increasing opportunities for participants to practice using as tronomical equipment. These changes resulted in higher levels of participa nt satisfaction and engagement throughout the camp activities. The experie nce demonstrates that integrating astronomy education with local geologica l heritage\, together with continuous program improvement based on partici pant feedback\, can create meaningful learning experiences that inspire yo uth and enhance engagement. This approach may also serve as a practical mo del for designing place-based astronomy outreach programs in other regions .\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/886/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/886/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O38 - What Makes an Online Hands-on Astronomy Camp Sustainable Bey ond the COVID-19 Pandemic? A Six-Year Case Study of the NAS Online Camp DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T024500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T030000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-860@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: jessada Keeratibharat (NARIT)\nThe COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of online learning\, leading many astronomy outr each programs to transition from face-to-face to virtual formats. While mo st online camps were introduced as temporary solutions\, few have continue d successfully after the pandemic. This study investigates the factors tha t have enabled the NAS Online Camp\, organized by the National Astronomica l Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT)\, to remain sustainable and conti nue growing over six consecutive years.\nThe study analyzes program implem entation\, participation records\, and participant feedback collected betw een 2021 and 2026. During this period\, the number of participants increas ed from approximately 500 to 2\,259 students nationwide\, while the number of participating schools expanded from 20 to 117. These results demonstra te the program's increasing reach and adoption across diverse educational settings. The findings suggest that long-term sustainability is driven not only by improved accessibility through online delivery\, but also by care fully designed interactive hands-on activities\, annual thematic renewal\, and opportunities for learners to apply their knowledge through challenge s such as Moon Phase Challenge and Star Wars. The program also successfull y engages diverse audiences\, including home-school families and returning participants\, while providing teachers with practical\, low-cost activit ies that can be readily adapted for classroom use.\nThis case study sugges ts that the long-term success of an online astronomy camp depends on maint aining meaningful interaction\, continuously refreshing learning experienc es\, and supporting authentic hands-on engagement rather than simply deliv ering content online. These findings provide practical insights for educat ors seeking to develop sustainable online STEM outreach programs beyond em ergency remote teaching.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contribut ions/860/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/860/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O36 - From Curiosity to the Cosmos: Creating Space for Women and G irls in Astronomy DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T034500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-866@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Jastine Michaela Adduru (DOST-PAGASA)\nThe DOST-PAGA SA Space Science and Astronomy Section has implemented a series of initiat ives aimed at fostering the participation of women and girls in astronomy through inclusive education\, outreach\, and experiential learning. Since 2022\, these efforts have evolved from awareness-building activities\, beg inning with the webinar Recognizing the Women and Girls in Philippine Astr onomy\, to more interactive and community-based programs.\nKey initiatives include a hybrid seminar highlighting women in astronomy\, the developmen t and rollout of a gender-inclusive Basic Astronomy Flipchart to promote a ccessible learning\, Cosmic Encounters with HOPE\, where girls experienced astronomy outreach through hands-on roles in planetarium operations and s olar observation\, and the Cosmic Discovery Trail\, an intergenerational p rogram that engaged mothers and children in astronomy activities.\nThis pr esentation highlights how these initiatives have created meaningful opport unities for women and girls to explore astronomy\, strengthen science enga gement\, and build confidence in STEM. By sharing DOST-PAGASA's experience \, the presentation demonstrates how sustained\, inclusive outreach can he lp inspire future generations and contribute to greater gender equity in a stronomy and science education.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/co ntributions/866/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/866/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O35 - Ethnoastronomy in the Cordilleras: Exploring the Astronomica l Beliefs of the Bontoc People DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T034500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-939@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Martine Joy Irog (Space Generation Advisory Council) \nThis study explores the indigenous astronomical knowledge of the Bontoc people in Barangay\nMaligcong\, Bontoc\, Mountain Province\, Philippines\, and its continuing influence on subsistence\npractices\, language\, and s ociocultural identity. As Ambrosio (2010) notes\, the ways celestial\nbodi es are interpreted often depend on the natural resources available in the area and the daily\nactivities of local communities. Using ethnographic fi eldwork that included interviews with\ncommunity elders\, alongside a revi ew of historical and linguistic sources\, this research shows\nhow lunar p hases once guided planting\, constellations marked seasonal changes\, and\ nastronomical objects informed ritual and language. Although the community today depends on\nweather forecasts and climate observations\, these star traditions remain important cultural\nmarkers. Linguistic analysis furthe r suggests that celestial terms in the Bontok language stem\nfrom Austrone sian roots\, reinforcing links between astronomy\, history\, and heritage. By\npreserving these perspectives\, this study contributes to the archive of Philippine\nEthnoastronomy and underlines the value of indigenous know ledge in enriching science and\nencouraging more inclusive approaches to e ducation.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/939/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/939/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O34 - NOVA: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Astronomy Education DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T031500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T033000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-940@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Amirul Hazim Kamarulzaman (Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin)\nThe value of interdisciplinary learning in inspiring greater inte rest in astronomy among young learners are so important and very significa nt. Our NOVA (Nature\, Observation and Virtual Astronomy) project is an in terdisciplinary approach to astronomy education conducted at KUSZA Observa tory\, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin. The aim is to enhance students' le arning experience at the observatory by integrating astronomy\, nocturnal ecology and digital learning. The programme introduces primary school stud ents to the night sky through guided stargazing activities\, constellation identification and the use of star charts to develop basic observational astronomy skills. To broaden their understanding of the nocturnal environm ent\, students also learn about nocturnal animals including their adaptati ons\, behaviours and ecological importance. This allows us to highlight th e relationship between dark skies and biodiversity conservation. In additi on\, an interactive courseware application called myAstronomi was develope d to support digital learning of the solar system allowing students to exp lore astronomy concepts through engaging and self-paced activities. By com bining hands-on observation\, environmental education and virtual learning \, the project creates an interdisciplinary learning experience that makes learning astronomy more relevant and enjoyable. This integrated approach encourages scientific curiosity\, strengthens environmental awareness and improves digital literacy while demonstrating how observatories can serve as effective centres for interdisciplinary STEM education and public engag ement.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/940/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/940/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O29 - Astronomy for the Visually Impaired: "Unseen Moonlight\, Tou chable Stars" DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T034500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-863@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Thanakrit Santikunaporn ()\nAstronomy is traditional ly perceived as a highly visual science\, often creating significant barri ers for individuals with visual impairments. Aligning with the United Nati ons’ Sustainable Development Goal of "Leave No One Behind\," the Nationa l Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT) initiated the "Astro nomy for the Visually Impaired" project. This presentation explores the in novative multi-sensory pedagogical methodologies and complex logistical mi lestones achieved over the project’s recent years. To bridge the learnin g gap\, NARIT developed specialized tactile media\, including 3D-printed m odels of constellations\, lunar craters\, and the Milky Way. Students enga ged in physical modeling of the Solar System and comets using diverse text ures and scents to grasp abstract concepts. Field excursions to Doi Inthan on allowed participants to firsthand experience high-altitude atmospheric pressure changes—demonstrated through inflating sealed bags—and distin ct temperature drops. A profound highlight was providing real-time telesco pe observations\, where low-vision students identified planetary light poi nts while blind participants engaged with the instruments' mechanics in a unique cold-weather environment. Logistically\, transporting cohorts of ov er 50 participants—most flying for the first time—from Bangkok to Chia ng Mai was a major triumph. Through a strategic partnership with Bangkok A irways\, the project navigated complex aviation safety protocols\, deployi ng extra ground and cabin staff to ensure a safe and empowering journey. U ltimately\, this initiative proves that with the right adaptations\, the w onders of the universe are accessible to everyone\, fostering true inclusi vity in STEM education.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributi ons/863/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/863/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O28 - Toward Inclusive Astronomy Communication: A Multimodal Astro nomy Visualization Program for Individuals in Mental Health Recovery DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T031500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T033000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-864@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Bianca Angeline Alcantara (New Era University)\nIndi viduals in mental health recovery often face barriers to participating in science outreach and informal STEM learning\, highlighting the need for mo re accessible and inclusive approaches to astronomy communication. This st udy proposes a multimodal astronomy visualization program designed to prom ote meaningful engagement with astronomy among volunteers in mental health recovery who have expressed curiosity about the universe and its wonders. \n\nThe program combines three educational tools: Stellarium for virtual n ight-sky exploration and discussions of the Solar System\, constellations\ , and notable deep-sky objects such as the Orion and Crab Nebulae\; SpaceE ngine for immersive exploration of the universe beyond the Solar System\; and telescope images captured by the researcher during previous astronomic al observation sessions\, providing authentic examples of celestial observ ations. These resources offer an accessible alternative to traditional tel escope-based outreach while fostering curiosity and scientific understandi ng.\n\nUsing a mixed-methods approach\, the study aims to recruit at least five volunteer participants. Each participant will attend a one-on-one\, one-hour astronomy visualization session led by the researcher\, during wh ich they will be encouraged to ask questions and engage in discussions abo ut astronomy and space science. Approximately 24 hours after the session\, participants will complete a feedback questionnaire consisting of validat ed quantitative measures and qualitative reflections assessing science eng agement\, perceived accessibility of astronomy\, sense of wonder\, and ove rall learning experience.\n\nRather than serving as a therapeutic interven tion\, the program examines how inclusive astronomy communication can crea te welcoming opportunities for individuals in mental health recovery to pa rticipate in science learning and public engagement. The findings are expe cted to contribute to research on accessibility\, diversity\, equity\, and inclusion in astronomy communication by demonstrating how freely availabl e digital platforms and researcher-generated astronomical imagery can deli ver meaningful\, low-cost\, and scalable outreach experiences that broaden participation in astronomy.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contr ibutions/864/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/864/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O25 - A Galaxy Within Reach: Navigating the Milky Way Galaxy throu gh Tactile Models DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T023000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T024500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-856@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Rika Mei Reventar (National Astronomical Research In stitute of Thailand)\nThe study of Astronomy has established a reputation as fundamentally visual\, but the desire to give visually impaired and bli nd people access to astronomy has long been pursued. Limited resources hav e impeded our curiosity about the cosmos\, especially when studying comple x celestial objects like galaxies. Even though telescopes offer useful ast ronomical image resources\, there is a necessity to innovate and create ne w resources to cater to a wider audience and produce a more inclusive repr esentation that will help the blind and visually impaired community gain a ccess to astronomical resources. The goal for this project was to improve astronomy accessibility by using three different 3D models of a galaxy to translate visual information into tactile objects that can be explored thr ough touch. The study aims to scrutinize the effectiveness of integrating 3D models in discussing astronomical concepts in hopes of clearing up comm on misconceptions and promoting a better understanding of the topic. The i ntegration and use of 3D models in representing visual images of celestial objects\, such as the galaxies\, is an innovative and effective way to en sure that everyone can explore astronomy more inclusively. This aims to br eak down obstacles to accessibility and promote a more inclusive approach to astronomy education.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributi ons/856/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/856/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O21 - Portable Astronomy for Mindanao’s Underserved Communities DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T030000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T031500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-847@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Prince Wilson Au ()\nMost remote areas of Mindanao o ffer breathtaking views of the stars\, planets\, and constellations. But d espite of this natural wonder\, knowledge in astronomy remains limited\, l eaving these communities without the tools to fully appreciate and underst and the celestial beauty above them. Realizing this gap\, the DOST-PAGASA Mindanao Planetarium team has taken significant steps to bring astronomy c loser to these underserved groups in Mindanao\, which includes indigenous peoples. This is through dynamic outreach programs that is being conducted during DOST-PAGASA events\, i.e.\, Astronomy Week and such. These efforts are meaningful for indigenous communities whose cultural traditions often hold deep connections to the sky\, yet who may not have access to modern scientific resources. These initiatives include mobile planetarium shows t hat recreate the cosmos\, telescope viewing sessions that allow participan ts to see celestial objects up close in real sky\, and guided stargazing a ctivities that connect the beauty of the night sky with stories and scient ific explanations. Beyond these immersive experiences\, the team also prov ides simple\, hands-on astronomy activities designed to be easily replicat ed by these local communities\, encouraging them to continue to explore an d share the knowledge. By combining awe-inspiring demonstrations with prac tical and accessible learning tools\, these programs not only spark curios ity but also nurture a deeper cultural and scientific appreciation of the universe. Ultimately\, this effort transforms the natural gift of Mindanao ’s skies into a lasting source of inspiration\, education\, and wonder f or generations to come.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributi ons/847/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/847/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O19 - Preparing Future Science Communicators: An Experiential Astr onomy Learning Internship Program at DOST-PAGASA DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T023000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T024500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-925@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Rizzalyn Joy Agustin (DOST-PAGASA)\nIn the Philippin es\, the growing interest in astronomy and the continued development of th e astronomy community provide a dynamic context for astronomy education an d science communication initiatives. One such educational opportunity is t he internship program implemented by the Space Science and Astronomy Secti on of DOST-PAGASA\, which provides students from diverse educational backg rounds with experiential learning in astronomy education and science commu nication. The program welcomes participants\, including senior high school students\, undergraduate astronomy majors\, and students from non-astrono my disciplines. Through authentic learning activities\, the internship ena bles interns to integrate astronomy knowledge with science communication p ractices.\n\nA central component of the internship is the development of a planetarium lecture\, which interns subsequently present to a supervisor or\, when opportunities are available\, to visiting audiences. For interns hips lasting three weeks or longer\, participants also prepare an astronom ical diary that translates monthly astronomical information into an access ible format\, providing additional practice in communicating astronomy con cepts to the public.\n\nThis presentation describes the structure\, implem entation\, and educational rationale of the internship program as a model for experiential learning in informal astronomy education. It highlights h ow the program engages participants across different educational levels an d disciplines through structured activities that integrate astronomy knowl edge\, planetarium presentation skills\, and science communication. By sha ring this internship framework\, the presentation offers a practical examp le of how experiential learning can support the development of future scie nce communicators in informal astronomy education.\n\nhttps://indico.narit .or.th/event/238/contributions/925/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/925/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O16 - Celestial Sphere Project - Affordable and mass produced mode l of the celestial sphere DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T081500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T083000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-837@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Matipon Tangmatitham (National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT))\nThe concept of a Celestial Sphere is amon g the concepts in astronomy that many find least intuitive to understand. This is an area where a handheld model can help immensely in visualizing t he concept. However\, a bad model can hinder a person's ability to underst and while a good model can be cost-prohibitive and the amount limitations prevents it from being hands-on. In this work we attempt to address these issues by developing a celestial sphere models that are affordable by usin g paper and beach ball as the media. A normal equirectangular map is trans formed using cassini map projection via a script run on graphics software to preserve vector graphic editability. Different projections centered at varying meridians called "gore" is created and together forms interrupted map projection. A 6-gore interrupted map projection is printed on a transp arent polyvinyl surface with two azimuthal equidistance projection as the cap to form a beach ball version. Additionally\, a 12-gore version is prin ted on paper with interlocking mechanism that allows an even more affordab le version to be printed anywhere. With additional base plate\, altitude a nd azimuth dials\, the paper version can be fully equipped to perform simp le instructions. These two versions offer powerful alternatives to teachin g about celestial sphere at the fraction of a cost.\n\nhttps://indico.nari t.or.th/event/238/contributions/837/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/837/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O12 - Development of the Astronomy Teacher Training Curriculum and Learning Activities by the National Astronomical Research Institute of Th ailand (NARIT) DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T071500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T073000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-882@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Khomsan Thuree (NARIT - National Astronomical Resear ch Institute of Thailand (Public Organization))\nThe National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT) has consistently conducted astrono my workshop programs to enhance the capacity of in-service teachers since its establishment in 2009. The primary objective is to elevate teachers' s ubject-matter knowledge and pedagogical skills\, which directly translates to the improved learning outcomes of their students. To ensure the curric ulum remains current and aligns with rapid scientific and technological ad vancements\, the program undergoes a systematic review and revision every 4 to 5 years. Although the NARIT curriculum is not strictly bound to the n ational core curriculum\, its continuous development is strategically desi gned to meet the modern professional needs of educators while aligning wit h the Institute’s visionary goals.\n\nRather than focusing solely on con ventional academic lectures\, the curriculum's framework emphasizes two pr imary strategic objectives. First\, it addresses scientific misconceptions - a critical challenge in science education. Assessments\, including pre- and post-tests alongside ongoing observational evaluations\, reveal that many teachers hold misconceptions regarding fundamental phenomena\, such a s the apparent motion and phases of the Moon. Second\, the program focuses on developing innovative\, contemporary learning activities. These activi ties emphasize active learning and are intentionally designed to be practi cal\, allowing teachers to easily adapt and implement them in their respec tive classrooms.\n\nIn conclusion\, the periodic revision of the curriculu m ensures the training program remains modernized and highly engaging. A n otable indicator of its success is the significant re-entry rate of alumni teachers returning to acquire new skills and experience newly introduced activities. Furthermore\, evaluation data confirm that this iterative proc ess effectively rectifies scientific misconceptions. The continuous implem entation of this program serves as a vital mechanism for driving and expan ding astronomical education and activities across the broader school syste m.\n\nKeywords: Astronomy Education\, Teacher Training\, Professional Deve lopment\, Scientific Misconceptions\, Active Learning.\n\nhttps://indico.n arit.or.th/event/238/contributions/882/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/882/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O11 - Connecting People through Astronomy: A Decade of Regional Co operation\, Education\, and Outreach with the IAU South West and Central A sian Regional Office of Astronomy for Development (SWCA ROAD) DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T084500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T090000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-1079@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Ani Davtyan (Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory (BAO ))\nEstablished in 2015 and hosted by the Byurakan Astrophysical Observato ry (BAO) in Armenia\, the International Astronomical Union’s South West and Central Asian Regional Office of Astronomy for Development (SWCA ROAD) has spent a decade connecting people and institutions through astronomy. Bringing together Armenia\, Georgia\, Iran\, Kazakhstan\, Tajikistan\, and Türkiye\, the Regional Office promotes cooperation across three intercon nected pillars: professional astronomy\, astronomy education\, and public outreach.\n\nOver the past decade\, SWCA ROAD has developed a diverse prog ramme of regional activities\, including Regional Astronomical Workshops ( RAW)\, Regional Astronomical Summer Schools (RASS)\, and joint workshops t hat bring together astronomers\, educators\, students\, and outreach pract itioners. These initiatives create opportunities for knowledge exchange\, professional development\, and the sharing of educational practices across national and cultural boundaries.\n\nInstitutional partnerships have furt her strengthened regional cooperation\, including Memorandum of understand ing with the Iranian Astronomical Society and the Georgian National Astron omical Observatory in 2025.\n\nSWCA ROAD has also expanded its activities beyond its geographical region by fostering interregional collaboration. A key milestone was the First Inter-Regional Astronomical Summer School (1I RASS)\, organized in 2023 in collaboration with the Arab World Regional Of fice. Further engagement with regional offices and international instituti ons has created additional opportunities for sharing expertise\, developin g joint initiatives\, and connecting astronomy communities worldwide.\n\nT his contribution reflects on SWCA ROAD’s first decade\, exploring how re gional networks can connect people through shared scientific interests\, s trengthen astronomy education\, and broaden public engagement with science . It highlights the importance of sustained partnerships\, collaborative l earning\, and cross-cultural exchange in developing astronomy initiatives that respond to diverse regional needs. Looking ahead\, SWCA ROAD aims to expand participation in regional activities\, strengthen inclusive astrono my education and public outreach\, develop a regional Virtual Observatory network for research and education\, and foster interdisciplinary collabor ation.\n\nThe experience of SWCA ROAD demonstrates how astronomy can serve as a bridge between communities\, institutions\, and cultures\, creating opportunities for learning\, cooperation\, and wider public engagement. It offers insights into how regional and interregional partnerships can cont ribute to a more connected and inclusive global astronomy community.\n\nht tps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/1079/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/1079/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:K02 - Role of Research Institute in Influencing Lasting Impact on the National Level DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T012000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T014000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-1000@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Matipon Tangmatitham (National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT))\nEighteen years ago\, Astronomy was a fore ign concept in Thailand. Then\, the National Astronomical Research Institu te (NARIT) was founded. Today\, Thailand is on the path of becoming world renown research institute\, bolstering Southeast Asia's largest optical an d radio telescope with robotic telescopes around the world and members of many international collaborations. This level of achievements under such a short time scale has rarely been observed anywhere in the history\, if at all. In order to accomplish this\, the role and responsibility in which a research institute serves its public had to be reconsidered from the grou nd up. By taking the public's science awareness as its sole responsibility \, NARIT has opened a new path for which research institutes can operate\, justifying its existence and gaining lasting public support. The success of NARIT in establishing astronomy as a new core science in the context of developing country perhaps can shed a light that utilizing astronomy as a tool to push forward human capacity and technological development for the public is a viable strategy in gathering lasting support for a research i nstitute.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/1000/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/1000/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:K04 - Engaging with the Public in Planetariums DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T010000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T012000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-993@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Martin George (International Planetarium Society)\nI t is now 101 years since planetariums became key tools in entertaining and educating people of all ages about the wonderful sights of the night sky. \n\nPlanetariums are now in use in very many countries\; they inspire peop le of all ages to show an interest in not only astronomy\, but science in general. The International Planetarium Society (IPS)\, the world’s major professional planetarium organisation\, has members from around 50 countr ies and holds a major conference every two years to discuss techniques and equipment. The speaker will discuss the history of planetariums\, includi ng the technology used. This has been changing\, the significant differenc e being the use of digital projection techniques. However\, it is the staf f in planetariums that are the key to engaging with the public: a planetar ium is not the same as a movie theatre\, and offers a quite different expe rience. In the most successful planetariums\, the enthusiasm of profession al staff is infectious.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributi ons/993/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/993/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:K06 - Inclusion\, Diversity\, Equity\, and Accessibility (IDEA) wi thin the Philippine Space Science and Astronomy Community DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T014000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T020000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-991@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Daryl Joe Santos ()\nIn a world full of prejudice\, division\, and conflict\, astronomy and space science still serve as a rem inder to humankind that the Universe is full of wonders and mysteries that make us all awe in unison. One of the goals of the recently established P hilippine Society of Space Science and Astronomy Research (PSSAR)\, Inc. i s to keep these fields this way by making them accessible and inclusive to everyone\, regardless of gender\, race\, or disability.\n\nOn behalf of P SSAR\, Inc.\, I will introduce our different projects that promote inclusi on\, diversity\, equity\, and accessibility (IDEA) within our Philippine a stronomy and space science community. To lead these projects\, PSSAR\, Inc . recently established an Accessibility and Inclusion Special Interest Gro up (SIG)\, a standing body of three coordinators\, each responsible for a distinct access modality and set of partnerships\, working under the super vision of the PSSAR Inc. Board. The aforementioned group will lead our pre viously implemented initiatives such as color-code labels for showing verb al communication preferences\, promotion of using preferred gender pronoun s (PGPs)\, inclusion of sign language interpreters\, Braille and text-to-s peech translations in our events\, and creation of sonified astronomical d ata and tactile learning tools and materials. I will also introduce our mu ltisensory star party and space accessibility program entitled “Hear and Touch the Sky” which will provide numerous activities that will promote accessibility in the field in collaboration with numerous local organizat ions.\n\nThis talk aims to influence organizers\, stakeholders\, agencies\ , and institutions to always consider IDEA not as an additional feature in their mission\, vision\, and events\, but as a central and intrinsic part of their planning\, so as to ensure that everyone will have the opportuni ty to enjoy and learn from the cosmos.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event /238/contributions/991/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/991/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:K03 - Visualising the Horizon: Toward an Ecological Theory of Scie nce Communication DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T014000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T020000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-990@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Kelly Blumenthal (IAU-OAO)\nThe United Nations has s et a global benchmark for tertiary education enrollment by 2030. While the situation has improved over the years\, progress is slowing in many natio ns. The share of women (particularly those with intersectional identities) graduating from these programmes falls below this benchmark\, and those f rom non-Western countries (e.g.\, Africa and Latin America) also lag behin d.\n\nSTEM outcomes show a similar trend\, though effects from the so-call ed Leaky Pipeline lead to the exclusion of women and other historically un derrepresented groups. For example\, Indigenous\, Aboriginal\, and First N ations groups make up a vanishingly small percentage of the STEM workforce \, even accounting for their relative population size. These statistics in dicate there is a staggering lack of opportunities\, support\, and represe ntation for these groups in STEM fields.\n\nStudies show that focusing on community\, culture\, and building trust stimulates STEM identity\, partic ularly among groups historically left out of STEM opportunities. In this t alk\, we will present a pathway toward improved engagement and uptake of S TEM in future generations by utilising an ecological model for science com munication based on mutuality and reciprocity.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or. th/event/238/contributions/990/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/990/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:W07 - Modern Planetary Imaging and the Latest Image Processing DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T050000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T060000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-989@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Christopher Go ()\nSoutheast Asia is one of the idea l places for planetary imaging. Tips on how to capture planets\, the imag e processing workflow\, and how to use the new Lucky Stack Worker 7softwar e.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/989/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/989/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P19 - Development of a Self-Paced Basic Astronomy Training Program (MOOC) to Enhance the Competencies of DOST-PAGASA Astronomy Lecturers DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-875@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Jastine Michaela Adduru (DOST-PAGASA)\nThe DOST-PAGA SA Space Science and Astronomy Section developed a competency-based\, self -paced Basic Astronomy Training Course to standardize and enhance the tech nical and pedagogical competencies of astronomy lecturers assigned to PAGA SA Regional Services Division (PRSD) mobile and fixed planetariums. Design ed as a blended learning program\, the course integrates asynchronous onli ne instruction with performance-based\, face-to-face practical training to provide a scalable and sustainable capacity-building framework for region al personnel. \nThe first phase of the course is purely online\, which inv olves completion of SCORM modules about the basics of astronomy. This pres entation will discuss the development of the training course\, its instruc tional design\, and its role in standardizing astronomy education across P AGASA's regional services division.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/23 8/contributions/875/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/875/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P18 - Igniting Young Minds Through Experiential Astronomy Educatio n: Advancing Astronomy Awareness and Science Engagement in Northern Luzon\ , Philippines DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-869@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Romeo Ganal (DOST-PAGASA)\nAstronomy is an effective tool for promoting scientific literacy\, critical thinking\, and interest in Science\, Technology\, Engineering\, and Mathematics (STEM). Following the Astronomy Teacher Training Program jointly conducted by the Philippin e Atmospheric\, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGA SA) and the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT)\, trained teachers and PAGASA personnel implemented astronomy outreach acti vities to introduce students in Northern Luzon to basic astronomical conce pts through experiential learning.\nThe initiative engaged elementary and secondary school students in lunar eclipse observation\, constellation-mak ing\, and guided stargazing activities. These hands-on experiences enabled students to observe celestial objects directly and understand the relatio nship between the Earth\, Moon\, and Sun\, planetary motion\, seasons\, an d other natural phenomena. By connecting astronomical events to everyday l ife\, the activities encouraged curiosity\, scientific inquiry\, and a gre ater appreciation of Earth's place in the universe.\nThe outreach demonstr ated that experiential astronomy education is an effective approach to inc reasing students' interest in astronomy and STEM while enhancing teachers' confidence in delivering astronomy lessons. The program also strengthened public awareness of astronomy by making scientific concepts more accessib le to young learners.\nThe initiative highlights the importance of sustain ed collaboration among government agencies\, educational institutions\, an d local communities in expanding astronomy education. Integrating observat ion-based activities into science learning provides meaningful opportuniti es to inspire the next generation of scientists and foster a scientificall y literate society.\nKeywords: Astronomy education\, science outreach\, ST EM education\, astronomy observation\, youth engagement\, PAGASA\, NARIT\, Northern Luzon.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/869 / LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/869/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P27 - How to Start Astronomy in School: A Collaborative Pathway fr om First Activities to Student Leaders and Community Outreach DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-895@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Thanarat Sabsom ()\nMany schools are interested in i ntroducing astronomy education but often face challenges in starting a pro gram due to limited teacher experience\, insufficient resources\, and unce rtainty about how to create meaningful learning opportunities. As a result \, astronomy activities may remain occasional events rather than developin g into a continuous learning culture involving students and communities. T his presentation shares a practical pathway for starting astronomy educati on in a school setting through collaboration\, student leadership\, and co mmunity engagement.\n\nThe initiative was developed at Rongkwang Anusorn S chool\, Thailand\, through a collaborative approach involving teacher deve lopment\, administrative support\, student participation\, resources from the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT)\, and par tnerships with external organizations. After participating in introductory astronomy teacher training\, the school began with small-scale activities using available resources\, including star-map activities\, telescope obs ervations\, celestial object observations\, and astronomy media. These ini tial experiences gradually expanded through support from NARIT\, including a 10-inch reflecting telescope and a mobile planetarium\, leading to the establishment of the Astro R.A. Astronomy Club.\n\nThe program focused on transforming students from astronomy learners into astronomy leaders. Twen ty student leaders were trained in astronomical knowledge\, scientific pro cess skills\, science communication\, activity design\, and learning facil itation. They developed and delivered astronomy learning activities throug h stargazing stations\, mobile planetarium sessions\, solar observations\, astronomy camps\, and night-sky observations for students from different age groups and members of the public.\n\nDuring one academic year\, the pr ogram conducted seven major activities across six venues\, reaching a cumu lative attendance of 1\,960. The activities extended astronomy learning be yond the classroom to other schools and local communities. Observations an d reflections indicated that student leaders developed greater confidence in communication\, teamwork\, leadership\, and activity management\, while participants gained increased interest and positive attitudes toward astr onomy through direct experiences.\n\nThe initiative received the Outstandi ng School Astronomy Activity Award and the Rising Star Award at the 7th Co nference on Astronomy Activities in Schools (CAAS). This experience demons trates that schools can begin astronomy education with small steps and gra dually expand through collaboration\, empowering students as facilitators\ , and connecting astronomy learning with wider communities.\n\nhttps://ind ico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/895/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/895/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P23 - Designing a Learning Space for Astronomy Outreach: A Case St udy from Khon Kaen\, Thailand DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-893@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Kewalin Thongpoyai (Regional Observatory for the Pub lic\, Khon Kaen)\nAstronomy outreach activities often depend on weather co nditions and clear skies. On cloudy or rainy nights\, or before the sky be comes dark enough\, telescope observations cannot be carried out as planne d. Therefore\, one of the main challenges in astronomy outreach is not onl y organizing stargazing activities\, but also creating meaningful learning experiences that can continue even when the sky cannot be observed. This idea led to the development of the Learning Space at the Regional Observat ory for the Public\, Khon Kaen.\n The Regional Observatory for th e Public\, Khon Kaen\, under the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT)\, organizes NARIT Public Night every Saturday througho ut the year from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. The program allows visitors to ex plore astronomy through telescope observations. To address this challenge\ , the observatory developed the Learning Space\, an indoor area where visi tors can continue learning while waiting for darkness or when sky observat ions are not possible. The Learning Space follows an interactive learning approach and includes three main areas: the Kids Zone\, which offers simpl e activities for children\; the Toy Zone\, where visitors can enjoy educat ional toys and learning materials\; and the Workshop Zone\, where visitors take part in simple hands-on activities. Workshop topics change every wee k to provide new learning experiences and encourage visitors to return.\n The Learning Space was designed to support continuous astronomy l earning alongside telescope observations. It offers hands-on activities fo r visitors of all ages and provides greater flexibility for public outreac h programs at the observatory. This case study shows that a well-designed learning space can enhance visitors' learning experiences and provide an e ffective approach to astronomy outreach when weather conditions limit tele scope observations.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/ 893/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/893/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P09 - Project TALA: Developing A Scalable Syllabus Framework for I nformal Astronomy Education in the Philippines DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-871@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Moreen Lamsen (Valenzuela City League of Astronomy E nthusiasts (V-CLUE))\, Mark Anthony Aguilando (Valenzuela City League of A stronomy Enthusiasts (V-CLUE))\nAstronomy plays a vital role in advancing scientific literacy\; however\, astronomy instruction in the Philippines r emains largely limited to foundational concepts within the K–12 curricul um\, providing few opportunities for learners to explore advanced topics a nd develop practical skills. The lack of structured informal astronomy pro grams and age-appropriate instructional resources further limits meaningfu l engagement with astronomy and space science. To address this gap\, the V alenzuela City League of Astronomy Enthusiasts (V-CLUE) developed Project TALA (Teaching Astronomy to Local Audience)\, the first astronomy summer s chool camp for youth in the Philippines\, centered on a structured learnin g for the youth aged 15–18.\n\nThe syllabus was designed using a learner -centered approach and underwent content validation by the DepEd Schools D ivision Office of Valenzuela and professionals in astronomy to ensure scie ntific accuracy\, pedagogical appropriateness\, and alignment with learner needs. It was organized into four major astronomy themes that progressive ly introduced concepts rarely discussed in the K–12 curriculum\, includi ng observational astronomy\, telescope operations\, stellar evolution\, ga laxies\, cosmology\, and space exploration. Each session combined lectures with hands-on workshops and was supported by learning experiences such as telescope observations\, facility visits\, reflective activities\, and a capstone project. The instructional sequence was guided by Kolb's Experien tial Learning Cycle and the 5E Instructional Model to promote inquiry\, co nceptual understanding\, and application.\n\nImplementation outcomes demon strated that the structured progression of topics and experiential learnin g design effectively sustained participant engagement\, achieving a 96.43% attendance rate across 12 sessions\, with all participants completing the program. Participant evaluations also indicated consistently high ratings for lecture delivery\, learning environment\, and engagement. These findi ngs suggest that a validated\, developmentally appropriate syllabus can se rve as an effective framework for informal astronomy education\, complemen ting the Philippine K–12 curriculum while providing a scalable model for community-based astronomy programs that promote astronomy literacy and yo uth engagement in science.\n\nKeywords: astronomy education\, informal ast ronomy education\, curriculum development\, astronomy literacy\, experient ial learning\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/871/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/871/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O51 - How (not) to communicate astrobiology DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T064500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T070000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-903@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Tan Vu Nguyen (Vietnamese Astronomical Society)\nAre we alone in the universe? To answer this fundamental question of humankin d\, the search for life (as we know it) beyond Earth has long been both an attraction and a challenge\, not only for researchers directly involved b ut also for many others. In fact\, discovering life beyond Earth will be a scientific breakthrough with implications that extend beyond the scientif ic sphere\, affecting all aspects of life. This scientific journey\, full of complexities and uncertainties\, requires effective yet responsible sci ence communication to foster public trust (in science) and enthusiasm\, as well as manage hype and expectations among the general public. \n\nThis p resentation will share the outcome of the workshop Breaking News: We Found Extraterrestrial Life! hosted by the Lorentz Center at the University of Leiden in the Netherlands in September 2024. This interdisciplinary worksh op brought together professional and amateur astronomers\, science communi cators\, science journalists\, historians\, philosophers\, and press infor mation officers to address this challenge. Communicating astrobiology need s to prioritise transparency\, clarity\, and inclusivity. Engaging the pub lic on this topic requires continuous updates and resilient public narrati ves that acknowledge both the successes and challenges of scientific disco very. Building trust (in science) requires openness about the capabilities and limitations of current research\, as well as the usually slow and rig orous process of science. \n\nThe ultimate goal of astrobiology communicat ion is to prepare the community and society at large for a range of possib le scenarios involving groundbreaking discoveries. The presentation will s hare strategies to communicate the search for life elsewhere with the publ ic\, which requires balancing scientific rigour with public engagement. By using accessible language\, addressing ethical considerations\, and setti ng realistic expectations\, we can ensure that astrobiology discoveries ar e properly understood and appreciated.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event /238/contributions/903/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/903/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O43 - Star-Counting Grid Frame: A Low-Cost Educational and Citizen -Science Tool for Monitoring Light Pollution and Night Sky Visibility in C ebu\, Philippines DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T060000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T061500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-849@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: John Roy Roblon (Cebu Technological University)\nLig ht pollution is an increasing environmental concern that diminishes night sky visibility\, limits opportunities for astronomical observation\, and r educes public engagement with the natural night sky. This study developed and evaluated a Star-Counting Grid Frame\, a low-cost and standardized obs ervational tool designed to support astronomy education\, citizen science\ , and community-based monitoring of night sky conditions in Cebu\, Philipp ines. The instrument consists of a 4-by-4 grid frame that provides a fixed field of view for systematic naked-eye star counting. Observations were c onducted across three environments representing varying levels of artifici al illumination: an urban site in Cebu City\, a peri-urban site in Banawa\ , and a rural site in Barili. Visible stars were recorded over multiple ob servation sessions and analyzed to examine differences in night sky visibi lity among locations. Results revealed a clear gradient in observable star s\, with the lowest counts recorded in the urban environment\, moderate co unts in the peri-urban area\, and the highest counts in the rural location . Statistical analysis confirmed significant differences among sites\, dem onstrating the measurable impact of artificial lighting on night sky visib ility. The findings highlight the effectiveness of simple observational me thods for documenting local light pollution conditions and raising awarene ss of dark-sky preservation. Beyond its research application\, the Star-Co unting Grid Frame offers an accessible platform for hands-on astronomy lea rning\, public engagement\, and citizen-science participation. Because it can be constructed from inexpensive and locally available materials\, the instrument provides schools\, communities\, and astronomy outreach program s with a practical tool for promoting scientific inquiry and environmental awareness. The study demonstrates how low-cost observational approaches c an contribute to astronomy education\, public communication of science\, a nd efforts to protect dark and quiet skies in developing regions.\n\nKeywo rds: light pollution\, dark and quiet sky\, astronomy education\, citizen science\, night sky visibility\, observational astronomy\n\nhttps://indico .narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/849/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/849/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O33 - Drawing the Stars: Comics as a Medium for Astronomy Engageme nt in the Philippines DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T030000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T031500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-937@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Girlie Cortez ()\nThe Cosmic Comic Strip Contest was organized as part of the 100 Hours of Astronomy celebration in the Philip pines. The contest’s theme “Tala’t Lahi: Kuwento ng mga Bituin at Ba yan (Stars and Heritage: Stories of the Sky and Our People).” was aimed to promote astronomy through creative storytelling and visual art by encou raging individuals or pairs to produce original comic strips that highligh t the deep connections between Filipino culture\, history\, and the cosmos .\n\nThe contest was conducted entirely online\, with mechanics\, guidelin es\, and submission instructions disseminated through DOST-PAGASA’s offi cial Facebook page. Open to Filipinos aged 16 and above\, the competition drew diverse participation—67% of entrants were 18 years old and above\, while 33% were aged 16-17. Most participants (79.9%) joined individually\ , while 20.1% submitted as pairs.\n\nA total of 139 entries were received\ , from which four top submissions were selected and awarded special prizes based on creativity/originality\, thematic relevance\, storytelling clari ty\, and artistic execution. Following the awarding ceremony\, an evaluati on form was administered to participants. Results showed that 85.7% report ed learning new astronomy concepts\, while the rest indicated they learned somewhat or not at all. Participants also identified their motivations fo r joining the contest\, with 92.9% citing an interest in comics and art an d 57.1% an interest in astronomy.\n\nOverall\, as the first astronomy-them ed comic contest conducted by DOST-PAGASA\, the Cosmic Comic Strip Contest proved to be a successful and effective platform for enhancing public eng agement with astronomy and promoting culturally grounded science communica tion. The insights gathered\, including participant motivations\, challeng es\, outcomes\, and the valuable recommendations\, comments\, and suggesti ons for future iterations provided\, offer practical guidance for similar outreach initiatives.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contribution s/937/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/937/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O32 - Agricultural Ethnoastronomy in Indonesia: Documenting Tradit ional Celestial Knowledge and Exploring Its Educational Relevance DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T024500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T030000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-938@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Aprilia Aprilia ()\nAcross Indonesia\, many communit ies have traditionally used celestial objects as seasonal markers to guide agricultural activities. These knowledge systems represent valuable examp les of indigenous astronomical practices that connect observations of the sky with everyday life. However\, rapid social and technological changes h ave contributed to the decline of such traditions\, highlighting the need for systematic documentation and preservation.\nThis study documents the u se of celestial objects in agricultural practices in several Indonesian co mmunities through a review of ethnographic records and existing studies. T he research identifies the celestial objects used as seasonal indicators\, their associated agricultural functions\, and the cultural meanings attac hed to them. The findings reveal that traditional sky knowledge remains an important component of local ecological knowledge and reflects long-term observations of seasonal environmental variations.\nBeyond documenting the se traditions\, the study discusses their relevance to astronomy education and public engagement. The close connection between celestial observation \, local culture\, and agricultural activities offers opportunities to con textualize astronomy learning and to promote public appreciation of indige nous knowledge systems. This works contributes to ongoing discussions on c ultural astronomy and highlights the potential of Indonesian ethnoastronom ical knowledge as a resource for future educational and outreach activitie s.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/938/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/938/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:K09 - More Than Stargazing: Astronomy Outreach as a Pathway to Dar k Sky Advocacy DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T014000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T020000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-998@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Khristian Dimacali (Philippine Astronomical Society) \nFor many people\, the night sky begins with a simple act: looking up. Ye t as communities develop and artificial light increases\, opportunities to experience a truly dark sky are becoming increasingly rare.\n\nThis keyno te shares the experience of the Philippine Astronomical Society\, Inc. (PA S) in using astronomy outreach to build public appreciation for the night sky and encourage its protection. Through overnight stargazing camps in Ta nay\, Rizal\, participants experience the night through telescopes\, meteo r watching\, astrophotography\, lectures\, meteorite specimens\, and exhib its. The sky itself becomes the classroom\, allowing people to discover fi rsthand the value of dark skies.\n\nThrough its Celestial Nights activitie s with Masungi Georeserve\, PAS also connects geotourism and astrotourism with a broader conversation about light pollution and its implications for wildlife\, fragile ecosystems\, and communities\, particularly as develop ment expands in Rizal. The experience of PAS demonstrates that dark-sky ad vocacy can begin with wonder. When people are given the opportunity to exp erience a star-filled sky\, understand what makes it possible\, and recogn ize what threatens it\, astronomy can become more than a way of understand ing the universe—it can become a pathway to environmental stewardship.\n \nPreserving the night sky is therefore not only about protecting our view of the stars. It is about recognizing dark skies as part of our natural e nvironment and encouraging communities\, organizations\, and decision-make rs to consider the impacts of artificial light\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or. th/event/238/contributions/998/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/998/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:W05 - Create your own Planetarium Script Workshop DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T060000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T070000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-936@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Roumjer Jomes Mojado (DOST-PAGASA)\nPAGASA will shar e its approach to developing engaging and scientifically accurate planetar ium lectures that inspire curiosity and enhance public understanding of as tronomy. Participants will learn how astronomical events and concepts are selected\, researched\, and transformed into educational narratives suitab le for audiences of different ages and backgrounds. The session will cover the fundamentals of writing planetarium lecture scripts\, including organ izing content into a compelling storyline\, simplifying complex astronomic al concepts without compromising scientific accuracy\, and incorporating l ocal context and timely celestial events to make each presentation relevan t and engaging.\nIn addition\, the lecture will demonstrate how planetariu m scripts are integrated with Stellarium simulations and multimedia elemen ts to create immersive visual experiences that complement the spoken prese ntation. Best practices in presentation delivery\, audience engagement\, a nd adapting lectures for face-to-face\, virtual\, and hybrid planetarium s ettings will also be discussed. By the end of the session\, participants w ill gain practical knowledge and techniques for designing and delivering e ffective planetarium lectures that educate\, inspire\, and foster greater appreciation of astronomy in classrooms\, planetariums\, museums\, observa tories\, and community outreach programs. Moreover\, participants will dra ft their own planetarium scripts to be shared with fellow participants.\n\ nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/936/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/936/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:W06 - THE MYSTERIES OF LIGHT & GLOW DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T060000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T070000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-944@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Siwarut Ploydang (National Astronomical Research Ins titute of Thailand (NARIT))\nUnravel the secrets hidden within the shadows \, where the mysteries of the cosmos are veiled not in darkness\, but conc ealed within the "light" both visible and invisible to our eyes. THE MYSTE RIES OF LIGHT & GLOW invites participants to enter a thrilling realm of te am-based inquiry\, blending science with an exhilarating competition to de code the hidden ciphers of light and luminescence\, ranging from molecular chemistry and the search for extraterrestrial life to the birth of distan t stars in deep space.\n\nThroughout the event\, teams must collaborate to "hunt for hidden secret codes" embedded within each learning station. Par ticipants begin by decoding light color mixing through authentic astronomi cal imaging techniques\, using separate RGB filters and various wavelength s to reveal the hidden physical properties of celestial objects. They then dive into luminescent phenomena by uncovering invisible messages via UV B ody Paint & Tattoo\, assuming the role of astrobiologists in an Astrobiolo gy mission to decode potential bio-signatures on exoplanets through chloro phyll luminescence\, witnessing UV-light-driven chemical reactions in UV R esin to craft key clues\, and simulating emission nebulae on a Glowing Wal l (where a phosphorescent backdrop acts as a nebula and a flashlight repre sents a star) to reveal codes that appear only momentarily.\n\nThis compet ition offers more than just fun and teamwork in assembling secret codes to solve the final puzzle for victory\; participants gain deep insights into the physics of light\, advanced astronomical imaging\, and the chemistry of luminescence. Ultimately\, the experience cultivates a scientific minds et that will forever transform how they perceive "light" both around them and across the universe.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contribut ions/944/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/944/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:W04 - Classify that star: H-R Diagram Workshop DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T050000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T060000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-838@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Matipon Tangmatitham (National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT))\nThe Hertzsprung-Russel Diagram is one of the most powerful tools astronomers have in their arsenal to classify the stars we can observe using limited information. Stellar life-cycle\, lifet ime of a main-sequence star\, cluster classification\, isochrone curve\, a nd many other astronomical concepts are built upon this simple concept of a diagram. However\, many students find this diagram intimidating and conf using. While many attempts are made to help navigate students through the relationships between different parameters along the diagram\, the instruc tions often ignore the single most important aspect that is in most studen ts' minds: "Why?"\n\nIn this workshop activities\, a simple analogy is use d to help students understand not the "What" the H-R Diagram is\, but the "Why" was H-R diagram was created the first place. Students are then intro duced to learning "why" this tools remain among the most powerful tools we have to understand the stars in the night sky. By spending a bit of time to understand the "why"\, the "what" can follows much more naturally now t hat the learners are engaged in the topic.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/e vent/238/contributions/838/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/838/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O30 - Pasipo: An Interactive Sonification Platform for Astronomica l Images DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T034500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-865@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Bernadette Fulgencio (University of the Philippines Diliman)\, Prince Abraham Gacusan (Institutional Shareholder Services Phil ippines Inc.)\nOver the years\, digital sky surveys have produced extensiv e archives of astronomical images that are freely available to the public. However\, astronomy remains heavily reliant on visual representations\, l imiting the participation of blind and low-vision individuals in citizen s cience and reducing opportunities to explore astronomical data through non visual means. To address this gap\, the Balik Balatik initiative developed a web-based interactive sonification platform called "Pasipo" that transl ates two-dimensional astronomical images into sound\, expanding the range of accessible astronomy resources available in the Philippines. The platfo rm converts spatial and color information into real-time audio using JavaS cript and the Tone.js Web Audio framework\, allowing users to interactivel y explore astronomical images through auditory cues. We use astronomical i mages captured by the Las Cumbres Observatory as demonstration datasets. B y providing an accessible alternative to visual image analysis\, our platf orm demonstrates the potential of sonification as an accessible tool for a stronomy education\, public outreach\, and citizen science.\n\nhttps://ind ico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/865/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/865/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O26 - Development of a Standardized Sonification Mapping Framework for Deep-Sky Objects Associated with the Perseus Arm Toward Inclusive Ast ronomy Education for Learners with Dyslexia DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T024500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T030000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-862@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Kyla Abillar (Rizal Technological University)\nAstro nomy education relies heavily on visual and text-based instructional mater ials\, creating learning challenges for students with dyslexia due to diff iculties in reading and language processing. Although sonification has eme rged as an alternative method for representing scientific data through sou nd\, its application in astronomy education remains limited. This study pr esents a sonification processing pipeline that transforms astronomical ima ge data into MIDI-based auditory representations. Astronomical images from the NASA/WISE survey\, including the Heart and Soul Nebula\, IC 348\, and SH2-235\, were processed through dataset selection\, image preprocessing\ , RGB channel decomposition\, pixel intensity analysis\, grayscale convers ion\, feature mapping\, and MIDI generation. The resulting MIDI outputs\, visualized using piano roll representations\, demonstrated that variations in image characteristics produced distinct auditory patterns while mainta ining a consistent processing workflow. The study demonstrates the technic al feasibility of transforming astronomical image data into structured aud itory representations\, providing a foundation for accessible and multisen sory approaches to astronomy education.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/even t/238/contributions/862/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/862/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:K01 - Looking Back\, Looking Up: Celebrating the Historic 50th Yea r of PAGASA Planetarium DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T010000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T012000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-1002@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Michael Bala (DOST-PAGASA)\nPlanetariums play a vita l role in astronomy education\, science communication\, and public engagem ent. This review traces the historical development of planetariums in the Philippines\, drawing on government records\, institutional publications\, legal documents\, and historical accounts. The earliest documented modern planetarium was established in 1954 at the Philippine Weather Bureau's As tronomical Observatory in UP Diliman\, followed by the National Planetariu m in 1975 and the PAGASA Science Garden Planetarium in September 1977—th e country's first operational planetarium. Originally fitted with a Zeiss- type projector and an MS-8 Minolta projector\, and designed with 88 seats symbolizing the 88 recognized constellations\, the PAGASA Planetarium has served for nearly five decades as a cornerstone of astronomy education\, d elivering live shows and lectures to generations of students and the publi c.\n\nThe planetarium's evolution reflects the broader modernization of Ph ilippine astronomy-learning facilities: from analog\, mechanical star-proj ection systems to digital\, mobile\, and full-dome technology. A key miles tone came in June 2014\, when the PAGASA Planetarium transitioned to digit al projection with the installation of a Panasonic DLP system—an upgrade that\, through sustained preventive maintenance and careful equipment man agement\, has continued operating well beyond its expected service life. A ccess to astronomy education also expanded geographically with the introdu ction of PAGASA's mobile planetarium in 1999 and the establishment of regi onal planetariums in Mindanao (2024) and the Visayas (2025)\, decentralizi ng services beyond Metro Manila.\n\nAs the PAGASA Planetarium approaches i ts 50th anniversary in 2027\, this presentation reflects on its historical and technological journey while addressing the challenges of aging infras tructure and plans to procure a new digital projection system. Together\, these developments underscore sustained institutional commitment to modern izing science education facilities\, expanding public access\, and strengt hening scientific literacy and appreciation of astronomy among Filipinos. The lessons drawn from sustaining and upgrading a national planetarium—l ong-term planning\, diligent maintenance\, and continuous innovation—off er valuable guidance for preserving science education infrastructure that inspires curiosity and public engagement for future generations\n\nhttps:/ /indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/1002/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/1002/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O15 - Connecting Classrooms to the Universe: Enhancing Astronomy E ducation through Planetariums DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T080000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T081500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-881@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Sanghyun Ha (METASPACE / Korea National University o f Education)\nAstronomy is one of the most inspiring subjects in the schoo l science curriculum\, but teaching it in a standard classroom comes with challenges. Most lessons rely heavily on flat 2D images\, diagrams\, and t extbook explanations. As a result\, many students struggle to clearly unde rstand complex concepts\, such as the scale of the universe\, planetary mo tions\, and space missions. Planetariums offer a powerful solution to brid ge this gap. By turning static concepts into immersive visual experiences\ , planetariums can create dynamic learning spaces that increase student en gagement and conceptual understanding.\n\nThis presentation introduces an ongoing educational program that integrates Korea’s national science cur riculum with planetarium technology\, using SkyExplorer software. The prog ram focuses on space exploration\, allowing students to virtually travel t hrough the Solar System\, visit distant space probes\, and observe celesti al events from dynamic perspectives. We will share practical ideas for pro gram development\, demonstrate key educational content\, and discuss how i mmersive planetarium experiences can strengthen astronomy education in sch ools.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/881/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/881/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O09 - Bringing Astronomy to the Public: The Development of “Star ry Night over Bangkok” and “Starry Night in the Park” as Innovative Public Astronomy Engagement Programs DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T081500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T083000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-900@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: suparerk karuehanon (National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (Public Organization))\nThe National Astronomical Re search Institute of Thailand (Public Organization) (NARIT) has developed a stronomy festivals under "Starry Night" series\, with the aim of bringing astronomy beyond observatories into public spaces\, promoting science awar eness\, while supporting dark sky awareness and astrotourism.\n\nThese pro grams were designed as interactive Astronomy Festivals\, anticipating wide range of audience and interests featuring telescope observations\, naked- eye constellation tours\, astronomy exhibits\, hands-on workshops\, scienc e communication activities\, children's learning zones\, and public talks by professional astronomers. The activity design emphasizes experiential l earning\, allowing participants of all ages to directly engage with astron omical phenomena in an informal learning environment.\n\nThe implementatio n has demonstrated remarkable public participation. The inaugural "Starry Night over Bangkok" attracted more than 12\,000 participants\, while the s econd event welcomed over 36\,000 visitors\, making it one of the largest stargazing event known worldwide. The activities successfully reached dive rse audiences\, including families\, students\, educators\, amateur astron omers\, tourists\, and the general public. Many additional spinoff series emerged over other location under the name "Starry Night over..." has repl icated similar success in different cities at their respective scales.\n\n Beyond increasing public engagement in astronomy\, the programs have gener ated broader societal benefits by enhancing scientific awareness\, encoura ging STEM learning among young people\, strengthening family-based learnin g experiences\, promoting the conservation of dark skies\, and stimulating nighttime tourism and local economic activities. Furthermore\, the initia tives have fostered collaborations among scientific institutions\, local g overnments\, educational organizations\, private sectors\, and community n etworks.\n\nThe success of these programs demonstrates that public astrono my activities conducted in accessible urban and community spaces represent an effective model for science communication and public engagement. The a pproach offers a scalable framework that can be adapted by other regions t o promote informal science education\, sustainable astronomical tourism (A strotourism)\, and lifelong learning through meaningful public participati on.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/900/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/900/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O08 - Communicating Astronomy Through Social Media: The Astronomic al Diary Video Series DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T080000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T081500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-905@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Rizzalyn Joy Agustin (DOST-PAGASA)\nAstronomical eve nts occur throughout the year\, yet many remain unnoticed due to limited a ccess to reliable\, timely\, and easy-to-understand astronomy information. To enhance public engagement\, the DOST-PAGASA Space Science and Astronom y Section produces the Astronomical Diary Video Series\, a monthly astrono my video presentation derived from the agency's Astronomical Diary Press R elease and published on the official DOST-PAGASA Facebook page.\n\nLaunche d in February 2021\, the series features upcoming astronomical events visi ble from the Philippines\, including meteor showers\, planetary conjunctio ns\, lunar phases\, eclipses\, and other notable celestial phenomena. Usin g the open-source planetarium software Stellarium\, together with narratio n\, graphics\, animation\, and video editing\, each episode simulates the night sky and provides practical observing guidance to help viewers apprec iate and observe these events.\n\nTo date\, approximately 65 episodes have been published\, providing students\, educators\, amateur astronomers\, a nd the general public with accessible and reliable astronomy information. This presentation describes the development and production workflow of the Astronomical Diary Video Series\, from script adaptation and sky simulati on to video production and dissemination through social media. It also dis cusses the use of regular monthly video presentations as a digital science communication strategy for improving public access to astronomy informati on and enhancing public engagement with astronomy.\n\nhttps://indico.narit .or.th/event/238/contributions/905/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/905/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:K10 - Astronomy in Vietnam: An Overview and Recent Progress DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T074500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T080000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-930@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Quynh Lan Nguyen ()\nOver the past decade\, astronom y and astrophysics in Vietnam have grown. While national infrastructure— such as observatories in Nha Trang\, Hoa Lac\, and ExploraScience Quy Nhon —has laid the foundation for public outreach and data collection\, unive rsities are now driving the next phase of growth through academic speciali zation and infrastructure expansion.\nThis presentation highlights recent national advancements in astronomy research and education\, focusing on ma jor university-led developments. A key highlight is Phenikaa University’ s launch of its new planetarium complex and the establishment of Vietnam ’s first specialized undergraduate program bridging Astrophysics and Spa ce Data Science. Phenikaa University is advancing both theoretical resear ch and hands-on observational education. Furthermore\, these developments serve as critical infrastructure for Hanoi hosting the 19th International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics (IOAA 2026)\, where Phenikaa Univer sity serves as the primary academic venue. We summarize these pedagogical and infrastructural developments\, demonstrating how university-led platfo rms and international collaborations on gravitational waves are training t he next generation.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/ 930/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/930/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P14 - Empowering Rural Students through Research-Based Astronomy E ducation: Development of the ASTRO-KHURU Project-Based Learning Model in a Thai Secondary School DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-873@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Witchaphon Puangkaew (Kuruprachasan School\, Seconda ry Educational Service Area Office Uthai Thani Chai Nat\, Thailand)\, Pho ngpathapee Thaikiew (Kuruprachasan School\, Secondary Educational Service Area Office Uthai Thani Chai Nat\, Thailand)\nAccess to authentic astrono my research experiences remains limited for many students in rural schools \, particularly in contexts where scientific equipment\, specialist suppor t\, and opportunities for advanced inquiry are not readily available. This study presents the development and implementation of the ASTRO-KHURU Mode l\, a project-based astronomy learning model designed to promote astronomi cal research competencies among secondary school students in a rural Thai school context. The study aimed to: 1) develop a project-based astronomy l earning model integrated with the ASTRO-KHURU framework\, 2) construct and validate the quality of the developed instructional model\, and 3) examin e the effects of the model by comparing students’ post-learning abilitie s in planning and conducting astronomical research with the 80% criterion\ , alongside a qualitative analysis of students’ learning behaviors and r esearch skill development.\n\nThe target group consisted of 35 upper secon dary school students from Khuruprachasan School\, Chainat\, Thailand\, who voluntarily participated in the project “Astro Research Kick-off: Ignit ing Dreams\, Cultivating Young Astronomy Researchers.” The participants were selected through purposive sampling. The research instruments include d: 1) the ASTRO-KHURU instructional model\, developed through the integrat ion of Project-Based Learning\, systems thinking\, and the PDCA cycle\; 2) an astronomical research skills assessment\; and 3) field note and learni ng reflection forms. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics\, inc luding mean and standard deviation\, a one-sample t-test\, and content ana lysis.\n\nThe findings revealed that the ASTRO-KHURU Model was operational ized through nine structured learning stages: A: Activate Curiosity\, S: S ystem Thinking and Science Literacy\, T: Teamwork and Topic Selection\, R: Research Design\, O: Observation and Operation\, K: Knowledge Constructio n\, H: Highlight and Presentation\, U: Use of Feedback\, and R: Reflection and Future Path. These stages enabled students to engage in astronomy res earch through curiosity-driven inquiry\, collaborative topic development\, systematic research design\, hands-on observation\, knowledge constructio n\, academic presentation\, feedback-based improvement\, and reflective pl anning for future learning.\n\nThe quality evaluation showed that the appr opriateness of the model\, as assessed by experts\, was at the highest lev el (Mean = 4.43\, S.D. = 0.38). The instructional efficiency of the model was 82.12/88.45\, exceeding the established 80/80 criterion. After impleme ntation\, students’ astronomical research skills reached 89.66%\, which was significantly higher than the 80% criterion at the .01 level. Students ’ overall satisfaction with the learning model was high (Mean = 4.52\, S .D. = 0.41)\, with the highest-rated aspect being “inspiration for futur e learning and careers in science” (Mean = 4.68). Content analysis of st udents’ reflections further indicated that 100% of the students were abl e to clearly describe their cognitive development\, acquired research skil ls\, and inspiration for further study in space science.\n\nThese findings indicate that the ASTRO-KHURU Model is an effective instructional approac h for promoting active learning and developing astronomical research compe tencies among secondary school students in rural educational contexts. The study demonstrates that\, when rural students are provided with a structu red learning process\, meaningful mentorship\, and opportunities to engage in authentic scientific inquiry\, they can develop research skills\, conf idence\, and motivation to pursue astronomy and space science. The model t herefore offers a practical and scalable framework for expanding research- based astronomy education\, reducing opportunity gaps\, and cultivating yo ung astronomy researchers in rural and underserved schools.\n\nKeywords: A STRO-KHURU Model\, project-based learning\, astronomy education\, rural sc hool\, astronomical research competencies\, young astronomy researchers\, active learning\, research-based learning\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/ev ent/238/contributions/873/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/873/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P10 - ASTRO-KS Model: Building a Participatory Astronomy Learning Ecosystem for School and Rural Communities in Thailand. DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-874@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Witchaphon Puangkaew (Khuruprachasan School\, Second ary Educational Service Area Office Uthai Thani Chai Nat\, Thailand.)\nAs tronomy can foster scientific literacy\, critical thinking\, imagination\, and competencies essential for twenty-first-century learners. Nevertheles s\, many rural schools face barriers to high-quality astronomy education\, including limited access to scientific instruments\, specialist expertise \, authentic data\, learning resources\, and hands-on scientific experienc es. This study presents and evaluates the ASTRO-KS Model\, a school-based framework developed at Khuruprachasan School in Chainat Province\, Thailan d\, to build a participatory astronomy learning ecosystem under the guidin g principle of “Astronomy for All”. The model seeks to position rural schools as hubs for astronomy learning\, student research\, science commun ication\, and community engagement.\nThe ASTRO-KS Model comprises seven in terconnected and mutually reinforcing components: (1) Access and Awareness \, expanding access to astronomy and strengthening public awareness\; (2) School-Based Astronomy System\, integrating astronomy into curricula\, cla ssroom instruction\, extracurricular activities\, and school management\; (3) Talent and Team Development\, strengthening the capacities of students \, teachers\, youth leaders\, and implementation teams\; (4) Research and Real Experience\, engaging learners with astronomical observations\, authe ntic data\, scientific instruments\, and research processes\; (5) Outreach and Opportunity\, communicating astronomy to the public and broadening le arning opportunities for schools and communities\; (6) Knowledge-Sharing N etwork\, facilitating the exchange of knowledge\, resources\, and effectiv e practices\; and (7) Sustainability\, establishing mechanisms for continu ity\, scaling\, and long-term implementation.\nA case-study programme eval uation was conducted using implementation data collected between 2023 and 2026. Data sources included activity records\, participant registers\, stu dent research and innovation outputs\, presentation records\, network docu mentation\, and participant evaluation surveys. The data were analysed usi ng content analysis and descriptive statistics. The model systematically i ntegrates classroom learning\, a young scientists club\, astronomy camps\, student research projects\, teacher professional development\, student ac ademic conferences\, interschool collaboration\, and public astronomy outr each.\nThe learning ecosystem expanded to seven secondary schools and fift een primary schools across several provinces in Thailand\, generating more than 12\,000 cumulative participant engagements. Students developed more than 50 astronomy and STEM projects covering observational astronomy\, ast rophysics\, spectroscopy\, astronomy education\, and integrated STEM learn ing. Student and teacher outputs were presented or recognised at national and international forums\, including CAAS\, TACs\, K–12 Astro Asia\, SEA -PEO\, and national science and innovation events. Community outreach inco rporated more than 50 hands-on learning activities\, public sky observatio ns\, student-led science communication\, and cultural performances. Among survey respondents\, mean satisfaction was 4.72 out of 5.00\, while the pr oportion of students expressing interest in further STEM study or careers rose from 58% in the pre-activity survey to 87% in the post-activity surve y.\nThe findings suggest that the ASTRO-KS Model is a promising\, practice -oriented framework for inclusive and participatory astronomy education. B y connecting school-based learning\, youth development\, authentic researc h\, public science communication\, collaborative networks\, and local cult ure\, the model may be adapted and scaled in rural and resource-constraine d settings to promote equitable access\, strengthen school–community par tnerships\, and support sustainable astronomy learning ecosystems in Thail and and across Southeast Asia.\n**Keywords:** ASTRO-KS Model\, astronomy e ducation\, learning ecosystem\, science communication\, community engageme nt\, educational equity\, rural schools\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/even t/238/contributions/874/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/874/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P11 - “KAWANANGAN : ASTRONOMICAL CENTER OF OBSERVATORY FOR ACADE MIC RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT IN MINDANAO” DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-912@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Jessamine Jayson ()\nThe Cosmos is the primary resou rce for astronomical science that is connected by the Astronomical Center of Observatory for Academic Research and Development in Mindanao\, Philipp ines. However\, the field of astronomical science requires further develop ment to achieve its full potential according to PAGASA. This project aims to elevate the nation’s scientific landscape\, thereby fostering its gro wth.\n \nRecognizing the scientific limitations of the country\, the purpo se in implementing the study is to build up opportunities for Filipinos\, inspiring them to aim higher and to comprehend the vastness of what is bey ond humans can possibly reach that could lead to national scientific devel opment. It is pursuing to contribute to space discoveries\, innovation and invention\, unlocking possibilities for potential groundbreaking contribu tions. Site selection process was conducted\, primarily utilizing Multi-cr iteria Decision Analysis for Optical Observatories\, with the goal of maxi mizing the observatory’s capabilities through the architectural perspect ive.\n\nThe results of this study recommend Indulang\, Talakag\, Bukidnon\ , Philippines as the selected location. This finding signifies a significa nt step towards establishing a foundation for research and development wit hin the Philippines\, opening up their horizon to become a global key cont ributor to space exploration and discovery\, while also generating local e conomic opportunities and fostering educational advancements in STEM field s with the assistance of the architectural design.\n\nhttps://indico.narit .or.th/event/238/contributions/912/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/912/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P20 - Bringing the Universe Closer: Expanding Astronomy Education Through DOST-PAGASA's Mobile Planetarium and Stargazing Outreach Program DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-934@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Ruben Cunanan (PAGASA)\nThe DOST-PAGASA Space Scienc e and Astronomy Section (SSAS) conducts the Mobile Planetarium and Stargaz ing Outreach Program to bring astronomy education and public engagement ac tivities to schools\, government agencies\, local communities\, and other institutions throughout the Philippines. The program is implemented throug h DOST-PAGASA-initiated outreach activities during astronomy celebrations and science events\, as well as upon request from institutions seeking ast ronomy lectures and immersive learning experiences.\n\nOutreach activities typically include mobile planetarium shows\, lectures on basic astronomy and the night sky\, telescope viewing sessions\, and discussions of curren t astronomical events. These activities provide participants with engaging and interactive opportunities to learn about astronomy beyond the traditi onal classroom setting.\n\nThis poster highlights the implementation and g eographic reach of the outreach program over the years. A map of outreach locations across different regions of the Philippines will illustrate the extent of DOST-PAGASA's efforts to expand access to astronomy education na tionwide. The presentation will also provide an overview of participant de mographics\, demonstrating that the majority of beneficiaries are students and teachers from elementary\, secondary\, and higher education instituti ons.\n\nThe poster showcases how mobile planetariums and telescope observi ng sessions have become effective tools for science communication\, streng thening partnerships with educational institutions and inspiring greater p ublic interest in astronomy across the country.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or .th/event/238/contributions/934/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/934/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P17 - Connecting Astronomy with Environmental Stewardship: A Commu nity Based Public Outreach Model at Bosscha Observatory DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-915@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Fauzia La Fatsa (Bandung Institute of Technology)\nP ublic outreach has become an essential part of the role of modern astronom ical observatories\, complementing research and education by building conn ections with surrounding communities. However\, outreach activities have r elatively limited emphasis on demonstrating how astronomy can be connected to environmental issues that are directly relevant to surrounding communi ties. This project aims to develop a community based public outreach model that connects astronomy with environmental stewardship by drawing on the ecological context of Bosscha Observatory\, Indonesia.\n\nDeveloped as par t of the 2026 Bottom-Up Public Engagement Program\, the model adopts a par ticipatory approach that integrates astronomy education\, environmental ou treach through astronomy\, and Sundanese ecological knowledge. Outreach ac tivities begin by introducing the origin of water in the Universe and Eart h's uniqueness as a habitable planet. These ideas are then connected to th e role of Bosscha Observatory as a water recharge area within the upper Ci paganti watershed\, providing a scientific context for discussions on loca l environmental conservation. \n\nThe outreach model brings together local schools\, youth organizations\, farmers\, women's groups\, university stu dents\, and community partners through educational workshops\, field obser vations\, environmental action\, and collaborative reflection. Throughout these activities\, astronomical concepts are introduced in the context of local environmental issues\, helping participants relate astronomy to envi ronmental challenges in their own communities.\n\nBy connecting astronomy with locally relevant environmental issues\, the model broadens the role o f observatories beyond research and education to include public engagement . Although developed in the context of Bosscha Observatory\, the model dem onstrates how locally relevant environmental issues can serve as an effect ive entry point for astronomy public outreach. This approach may be adapte d by other observatories seeking to strengthen relationships with surround ing communities.\n\nKeywords: Astronomy public outreach\, Community engage ment\, Environmental stewardship\, Environmental education\, Observatory\n \nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/915/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/915/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P26 - Alternative Conceptions of Senior High School Students to As tronomy Concepts DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-894@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Ryan Manuel Guido (Rizal Technological University)\n **Introduction**\n\nFilipino students are required to undertake the revise d basic education curriculum (RBEC\, or K–12 curriculum) from kindergart en up to senior high school set by the Department of Education (DepEd). In cluded in the revised curriculum are astronomy concepts that are taught at different grade levels in junior high school (from Grade 7 up to Grade 9) . Topics in Grade 7 include the concepts of seasons and eclipses. Characte ristics of asteroids\, comets\, and other members of the solar system are taught in Grade 8\, while characteristics of stars and constellations are taught in Grade 9. (Department of Education\, 2016)\n\nThe arrangement of topics in astronomy and other science concepts in elementary and junior hi gh school is patterned using a spiral progression curriculum. This curricu lum was promoted by Bruner. Bruner (1960) encourages different educational institutions to teach concepts first at a more simplified level\, but as the learner progresses\, those concepts will be relearned and they will ad d concepts that are more complex but related to the first one. Thus\, conc epts will have a gradual increase in difficulty. To assess the effectivene ss of the curriculum\, the Bureau of Educational Assessment conducts the N ational Achievement Test (NAT) for junior high and senior high school stud ents. Based on the latest result of the NAT\, the national result is 44.1% in the school year 2016–2017\, which is lower compared to the 44.7% res ult in the school year 2015–2016. (Aguinaldo\, 2019) However\, scores in relation to astronomy concepts are not included. One of the perennial pro blems in curriculum assessment is the alternative conceptions of students. \n\nAlternative conception is defined as the students’ personal construc t of knowledge that is different from the universally accepted scientific facts (Chhabra & Baveja\, 2012). Also\, Gilbert (1983) defined alternative conception as an idea or thought of a learner that is different from the socially agreed concept. If the student learned an alternative concept\, i t may be difficult to unlearn or change due to the high resistance of the learner to change it. (Novak\, 1988) In recent years\, there have been num erous studies that focus on identifying the difficulties students have in comprehending different astronomical concepts (Kharis\, 2016). However\, t here is scarce literature on the alternative conceptions of astronomy conc epts among students in the Philippines. Based on this\, researchers would like to determine the different alternative conceptions of astronomy conce pts taught to senior high school students during junior high school.\n\n** Methods**\n\nThe researcher used a qualitative descriptive survey design. According to Calmorin & Calmorin (2007)\, this design is best suited to de termining the degree of differences between the subjects. Also\, the resea rcher will determine the variation of participants in different conditions and situations.\n\nThe participants of the study were the Grade 11 senior high school students. Grade 11 students were the participants because the y already learned about astronomy topics in junior high school. Also\, the researcher assumes that they have no astronomy concepts learned in their grade 11 subjects in science (Earth Science\, Physical Sciences\, Earth an d Life Science\, and DRRR) in relation to the chosen astronomy topics sinc e those topics are not included in the curriculum guide of the said subjec ts. The researcher employed stratified random sampling. Stratified random sampling used layering techniques. In each layer or stratum\, the particip ants were selected randomly. (Calmorin & Calmorin\, 2007).\n\nThe previous junior high school of each participant will be considered in this study. This is to make sure that the participants came from different junior high schools and to increase the variability of the answers. After classifying the students in stratification\, the researcher will use systematic rando m sampling to select the students randomly.\n\nThe researcher used a guide d or structured interview to determine the alternative conceptions of astr onomy concepts among senior high school students. The researcher and the p articipant used video conferencing applications for the interview. The gui ded or structured interview consists of pre-formulated questions that will help the researcher answer the formulated problems. To answer the first q uestion\, the researcher will include two sets of questions. The first set of questions will assess the known understanding of the subject of eclips es (solar and lunar eclipses). The second set of questions will determine their understanding of seasons. For the answers to the second question\, t he research will include questions that will determine how the participant s acquired those alternative conceptions. For the third question\, the int erview guide will consist of questions that will determine the factors inf luencing how they acquired those conceptions. These guided or structured i nterview questions were designed by the researcher. The researcher will al so make a table of specifications for the questions. This will allow the r esearcher to align the questions with the required competency in astronomy in the science curriculum guide from the Department of Education. The que stions from the interview guide were submitted to the research adviser to check and to give comments and suggestions. After that\, the researcher se eks the guidance of astronomy professors at the Department of Earth and Sp ace Science at Rizal Technological University to validate the content of t he questions.\n\n**Results**\n\nThe different results and analyses are pre sented in the order of sub-problems of this study\, as follows: Senior hig h school students have alternative conceptions of different astronomy conc epts covered by the curriculum guide for junior high school students.\n\nI n the concept of a solar eclipse\, students have alternative conceptions i f they explain the concept in verbal form rather than in diagram form. The alternative conceptions of students in drawing form are the Earth-Sun-Moo n model and the Moving Sun and Moon model. For the verbal form\, the alter native conceptions are: (1) solar eclipses happen at night\; (2) the sun a nd moon are moving towards each other\; (3) when the moon rotates\, it cov ers the sun\; and (4) the moon is blocking the path of the sun.\n\nIn the concept of a lunar eclipse\, students also commit alternative conceptions if they explain the concept in verbal form rather than in diagram form. In the diagram form\, the alternative conceptions of students are: (1) the m oving moon and sun model\; and (2) the earth-moon-sun model. Students also commit alternative conceptions if they explain them verbally. These are: (1) light emitted from the Moon was blocked by Earth\; (2) the Moon disapp eared during a lunar eclipse\; (3) Earth came between the Sun and Moon\; ( 4) the Moon blocked the sunrays reflected on the Earth\; (5) the mechanism of a lunar eclipse was the same as that of a solar eclipse\; (6) the Moon was blocking Earth’s light\; and (7) the Sun was blocking the Moon duri ng the nighttime.\n\nHowever\, for Philippine seasons\, there is no differ ence between the verbal and diagram forms. The alternative conceptions in drawing form are: (1) distance of the Earth from the Sun\; and (2) local w eather model. Also\, students have alternative conceptions regarding the n ames of the seasons\, like (1) rainy and summer\, (2) winter and summer\, (3) El Nino and La Nina\, and (4) sunny\, rainy\, and typhoon. In verbal f orm\, these are the alternative conceptions of students: (1) the northern hemisphere experiences a rainy and sunny season\, while the southern hemis phere experiences winter and autumn\; and (2) if the Philippines is not in the spotlight of the sun\, then it is a rainy season. Otherwise\, if the country is in the spotlight\, then it is sunny or “tag-init” and (3) i f the Earth is farther from the Sun\, then it is rainy. If near\, then it is summer\; (4) the Philippines is located at the center of the equator\; and (5) the Philippines is experiencing balanced day and night. Students a cquired those alternative conceptions through the pedagogy of their teache rs (length of instructional time\, teaching methods)\, the surfing of the internet and social media\, the personal experiences of the students\, and the visual representation of the mechanisms of the astronomy concepts.\n\ nConclusions\n\nThe results of the study led the researcher to conclude th at senior high school students have alternative conceptions of different s elected astronomy concepts that are included in their junior high school l esson. The researchers noticed that students gave more alternative concept ions if they explained the concepts in verbal form than in drawing form. T his conclusion is true for the concepts of solar and lunar eclipses but no t for Philippine seasons. Also\, students gave a higher alternative concep tion of the mechanism by which lunar eclipses work than solar eclipses\, b oth in verbal and in drawing form. Based on the responses of the responden ts\, the research also concludes that students acquired those alternative conceptions through the pedagogy of the teacher (which includes the length of instructional time and teaching methods)\, the use of the internet and social media as information sources\, the personal experiences of the stu dents\, and the visual representation of those phenomena.\n\nhttps://indic o.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/894/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/894/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P24 - Thai Heritage and ASEAN Astronomy Learning Ecosystem: An Int egrated Astronomy Education Framework through Mission-Based\, Jigsaw\, Gam e-Based\, and Active Learning DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-883@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Natthawat Najaiyen (Buddhajakwittaya School)\nAstron omy education provides a unique opportunity to integrate scientific inquir y with cultural heritage and interdisciplinary learning. However\, astrono my instruction in many schools remains largely lecture-based\, limiting st udents' opportunities to engage in authentic scientific investigations and connect astronomical concepts with local contexts. Thailand and ASEAN cou ntries possess rich astronomical heritage embedded in temples\, archaeolog ical sites\, traditional calendars\, architectural alignments\, and indige nous knowledge. Despite their educational value\, these resources are rare ly incorporated into formal astronomy education. To address this challenge \, Buddhajak Wittaya School developed the Thai Heritage and ASEAN Astronom y Learning Ecosystem\, an educational framework integrating classroom inst ruction\, extracurricular learning\, heritage-based field experiences\, an d community outreach through Mission-Based Learning\, Jigsaw Learning\, Ga me-Based Learning\, and Active Learning.\n\nThe framework was designed to (1) integrate astronomy with science\, history\, culture\, mathematics\, g eography\, and local wisdom\; (2) promote inquiry\, collaboration\, and pr oblem-solving\; (3) enhance astronomy achievement and twenty-first-century competencies\; and (4) strengthen astronomy communication and community e ngagement.\n\nThe learning ecosystem consisted of five interconnected comp onents: Classroom Astronomy\, Astronomy Club\, Thai Heritage and ASEAN Ast ronomy Camp\, Heritage Field Study\, and Community Astronomy Outreach. The Thai Heritage and ASEAN Astronomy Camp served as the central learning exp erience through five mission-based learning activities\, where students wo rked collaboratively in expert teams using Jigsaw Learning to solve authen tic astronomical challenges through inquiry\, evidence collection\, collab orative investigation\, and scientific communication.\n\nThe five missions consisted of Mission 1: Decoding the Solar Temple\, in which students inv estigated the astronomical orientation of Buddhist temples by measuring so lar shadows\, determining cardinal directions\, constructing simple sundia ls\, and interpreting how ancient civilizations applied solar observations in sacred architecture\; Mission 2: The Lost Lunar Calendar\, where stude nts reconstructed the traditional Thai lunar calendar from historical evid ence while exploring lunar phases\, Buddhist festivals\, agricultural trad itions\, and indigenous astronomical knowledge\; Mission 3: ASEAN Sky Expl orer\, in which students compared constellations\, celestial navigation\, and indigenous astronomical knowledge across ASEAN civilizations to unders tand astronomy as a shared cultural heritage\; Mission 4: Solar Tracker\, where students investigated the apparent motion of the Sun through direct observations and field measurements to explain Earth's rotation\, seasonal changes\, solar altitude\, and sunrise–sunset positions\; and Mission 5 : Stargazer Navigator\, in which students interpreted star maps\, identifi ed constellations\, observed celestial objects through telescopes\, and ap plied celestial navigation techniques to determine directions and explain astronomical phenomena. Each mission incorporated Game-Based Learning thro ugh puzzles\, astronomy detective tasks\, escape challenges\, collaborativ e investigations\, and reflective discussions to promote active participat ion\, critical thinking\, conceptual understanding\, and interdisciplinary learning.\n\nA total of 430 participants\, including 80 upper-secondary s tudents from Buddhajak Wittaya School and 350 primary school students from ten partner schools in Bangkok\, participated in the program. Students' m ean achievement scores increased significantly from 9.18 ± 2.31 before pa rticipation to 16.74 ± 1.94 after the program\, representing a 70.1% impr ovement (p \n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/883/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/883/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P16 - Dark Sky Tanay: Assessing the Night Sky Brightness of Tanay\ , Rizal using VIIRS Nighttime Lights and Vertical Plane Imaging DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-917@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Benedick James Baclig ()\nTanay\, Rizal has become o ne of the most frequented destinations for camping\, stargazing\, and outd oor recreation in the Philippines due to its relatively dark skies\, eleva ted terrain\, and accessibility from Metro Manila. However\, increasing to urism development\, expanding infrastructure\, and the growing use of arti ficial outdoor lighting pose potential threats to the quality of its night time environment. As light pollution continues to increase globally\, the preservation of naturally dark areas has become an important concern for a stronomy\, ecology\, sustainable tourism\, and environmental conservation. This study aims to establish a baseline assessment of the light pollution conditions and dark-sky potential of Tanay through the integration of sat ellite-based and ground-oriented imaging techniques.\n\nThe study utilizes VIIRS Suomi-NPP Cloud-Free Moonlight-adjusted Nighttime Lights data to qu antify artificial light emissions and evaluate spatial patterns of nightti me radiance in and around candidate observation sites. Temporal and spatia l analyses are conducted using zonal statistics\, confidence intervals\, a nd radiance trend assessments to identify areas experiencing increasing le vels of artificial illumination. To complement the satellite analysis\, ve rtical plane imaging employing fisheye-lens photography is used to charact erize the distribution\, intensity\, and color temperature of local lighti ng sources and to identify potential contributors to skyglow and light tre spass. The combined methodology follows established approaches in astronom ical site assessment and light pollution research\, allowing both large-sc ale and localized evaluation of nighttime lighting conditions.\n\nThe rese arch provides a preliminary characterization of the night-sky environment of Tanay and identifies areas where increasing artificial lighting may aff ect the visibility of celestial objects and the quality of outdoor nightti me experiences. By combining remote sensing with site-level imaging\, the study offers a framework for monitoring light pollution in emerging astrot ourism and ecotourism destinations. The findings are expected to support f uture efforts in responsible lighting management\, dark-sky conservation\, astronomy education\, and sustainable tourism planning. Furthermore\, the study highlights the importance of proactive monitoring and mitigation me asures to preserve the remaining dark skies of Tanay as a valuable scienti fic\, environmental\, and cultural resource for future generations.\n\n*** Keywords:** Light Pollution\, Dark-Sky Conservation\, Tanay Rizal\, VIIRS Nighttime Lights\, Vertical Plane Imaging\, Astrotourism\, Night Sky Brigh tness\, Sustainable Tourism\, Astronomy Education.*\n\nhttps://indico.nari t.or.th/event/238/contributions/917/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/917/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P12 - Planetarium Workshop: An Extracurricular Astronomy Program f or Elementary School Students DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-933@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Satoka Tanaka (Kawasaki Municipal Science Museum)\nK awasaki Municipal Science Museum is a museum of astronomy and natural scie nces with a planetarium\, which is equipped with an 18-meter dome and the opto-mechanical planetarium “MEGASTAR-III FUSION” by Ohira Tech. \n\n We have a planetarium workshop for elementary school students in grades 4 through 6. The workshop consists of sessions held over 7-month period and provides hands-on experience in learning about basic astronomical knowled ge and the mechanism of a planetarium that simulates a real starry sky. \ nThe purpose of this workshop is to deepen children’s interest in astron omy\, space\, and science through the experiences\, and to give them oppor tunities for unique experiences of learning at a planetarium which cannot be offered in schools. \nThe children research and prepare their own manu scripts on topics of interest and collaborate with other participants to c reate a 45-minutes planetarium show. In the show held on the final day of the workshop\, they stand at the console to operate it by themselves and give a presentation on the starry sky. \n\nIn this presentation\, I will introduce the content of the workshop and would like to discuss the benefi ts of using the planetarium as a venue to connect with the general public\ , particularly elementary school children.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/e vent/238/contributions/933/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/933/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P15 - AGOS institute for advanced science\, culture\, and sustaina bility DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-935@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Mar Emmanuel Velasco (Philippine Astronomical Societ y\, Inc.)\nWhile Pasig City continues to advance student welfare and educa tional access\, a gap still remains in specialized\, immersive infrastruct ure capable of bridging traditional classroom learning with applied scient ific inquiry\, indigenous culture\, and urban environmental care. Standard educational spaces lack the advanced technology needed to inspire and nur ture future researchers\, limiting opportunities for interdisciplinary exp loration. To address this\, this proposal outlines the framework for the A GOS Institute for Advanced Science\, Culture\, and Sustainability in Baran gay Ugong\, Pasig City. The project redefines the traditional observatory model by integrating astronomical facility design with ethnoastronomical d ocumentation\, public education\, and riverfront ecological management alo ng the Pasig River.\n\nThe proposed methodology applies sustainable urban planning and universal design principles to create an accessible\, multi-u se civic asset. Sited near the C5 corridor and the Maybunga Ferry Station\ , the facility leverages low-carbon\, river-based transit access. The spat ial plan incorporates riverbank eco-restoration\, public function spaces\, an accessible annex library\, and commercial allocations intended to supp ort local micro\, small\, and macro-enterprises. This design directly alig ns with Pasig City’s 5-Point Focus Agenda on Access to Quality Education and Resources\, while addressing UN Sustainable Development Goals 4 (Qual ity Education)\, 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth)\, and 9 (Industry\, I nnovation\, and Infrastructure). The project is structured around the AGOS framework: Angkan (Lineage/Ethnoastronomy)\, Gabay (Guidance/Education)\, Oportunidad (Opportunity/Accessibility)\, and Suporta (Support/Research I nfrastructure). \n\nThe anticipated deliverable is a scalable scientific a nd cultural facility anchored by a multi-use dome projection system. Beyon d standard planetarium shows\, the dome is designed to serve as a visualiz ation medium for cross-disciplinary data\, scientific conferences\, and cu ltural programming. Complemented by an accessible annex library\, open pub lic halls\, local commercial hubs\, and local green space\, the AGOS Insti tute offers a practical blueprint for integrating astronomical facility de sign\, environmental management\, and community engagement. \n\n***Keyword s:** Digital Planetarium\, Ethnoastronomy\, Public Science Communication\, Eco-Cultural Center*\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contribution s/935/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/935/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P22 - Egg Nebula: Bringing the Stars Closer to Filipinos through A rt and Digital Storytelling DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-943@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Rheanne Jimeno (Space Generation Advisory Council)\n Astronomy can feel hard to reach— full of numbers\, distances\, and idea s that are tough to picture. Egg Nebula is a digital science communication platform that treats stories and art as the way in\, turning complex conc epts and data into experiences the public can actually understand and enjo y.\nAt the center of this talk is a digital planetarium where users trace their own shapes among the stars and build stories around them. The idea g rew from an in-person event where children\, asked to find their own patte rns in the sky\, came up with strikingly different readings of the same st ars — much like how early Filipino traditions saw figures such as Balati k and Moroporo. Turning the planetarium into a space where people create a nd tell their own star stories\, rather than just watch\, makes astronomy both easier to grasp and more engaging.\nMore widely\, the talk shows how stories and pictures help people make sense of hard\, data-heavy science. Using Egg Nebula's projects as examples\, the talk lays out simple design ideas for building digital\, story-driven astronomy experiences\, and sha res how the platform is being brought back and grown for wider use.\n\nhtt ps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/943/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/943/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P21 - Cosmic Perspectives: Using Astronomy to Support Mental Healt h and Wellbeing DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-942@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Rheanne Jimeno (Space Generation Advisory Council)\n Looking up at the night sky can shift how people feel about their own worr ies. The sense of awe and vastness that astronomy brings pull attention in to the present moment and helps us change what feels important. These same shifts sit at the heart of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) which is a practice built around accepting difficult feelings\, stepping back fr om unhelpful thoughts\, and reconnecting with what matters.\nThis talk loo ks at how the perspective astronomy offers\, and the simple act of being u nder the stars\, can be used to support mental health and wellbeing. Build ing on the IAU Astro for Mental Health initiative\, it connects stargazing to the language of ACT and to the wellbeing that comes from being in natu re\, showing why astronomy outreach is well suited to encouraging acceptan ce\, perspective\, and connection.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238 /contributions/942/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/942/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P13 - The First Astronomy on Tap in the Philippines - Learnings an d Best Practices DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-941@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Daryl Joe Santos (Rizal Technological University)\nA stronomy on Tap (AoT) is a worldwide network of events in which astronomer s and related professionals & students give short presentations in pubs an d cafes\, allowing the public to connect with experts in a relaxed environ ment. Last March 2026\, AoT Manila was launched\, becoming the first AoT " satellite" in the Philippines and the sixth in Asia. AoT Manila is current ly organized by the Philippine Society of Space and Astronomy Research (PS SAR) and student volunteers from various universities within Metro Manila. In this poster\, we will share some of the lessons the organizers and vol unteers have learned from organizing AoT Manila that differ from those in other AoT satellites\, such as our "comedy" Astronomy on News segment\, sp ecial sessions given by invited speakers\, and experts who visit the Phili ppines that end up becoming speakers in our sessions. Finally\, we will pr esent some of the feedback that we have received from the audience. We hop e to encourage other countries and cities without AoT yet to start their o wn AoT in their respective areas.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/ contributions/941/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/941/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P25 - Beyond the Dome: The Planetarium as a Gateway to Astronomy a nd Science Education in the Visayas DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-932@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Vhan Therese Sabellano (PAGASA)\nThe Visayas Planeta rium\, operated by the Visayas PAGASA Regional Services Division (VPRSD) i n Cebu\, Philippines\, is emerging as a regional platform for astronomy ed ucation\, public engagement\, and informal STEM learning. While the planet arium primarily introduces visitors to astronomy and space science through immersive digital experiences\, its potential extends beyond the dome by connecting astronomy with Earth science\, atmospheric science\, weather\, and climate.\n\nSince opening to the public in 2025\, the Visayas Planetar ium has attracted an increasing number of visitors\, with students and edu cational institutions comprising the majority of its audience. The growing interest demonstrates the potential of the planetarium to serve not only as a venue for astronomy education but also as a gateway to broader scient ific learning.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/932/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/932/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P08 - Students’ motivational experiences in planetary science le arning through a blended station rotation model: A multiple case study wit h creative artifacts DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-872@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Gilden Maecah Migalang (MSU Iligan Institute of Tech nology\; University of the Philippines Open University)\, Dharel Acut (Ceb u Technological University\; Cebu Normal University)\nUnderstanding how st udents experience motivation within blended learning environments remains an important yet underexplored area in science education. This multiple ca se study explored students' motivational experiences during a blended stat ion rotation model implemented in a Grade 10 planetary science unit. Guide d by Self-Determination Theory\, the study examined four motivational case s: intrinsic motivation\, self-efficacy\, self-determination\, and academi c grit\, and synthesized common motivational patterns across cases while a nalyzing students' creative artifacts as representations of their learning experiences. Data were collected through individual open-ended responses\ , focus group discussions\, and student-generated artifacts\, and were ana lyzed using within-case and cross-case thematic analyses. Findings reveale d that motivation developed as an interconnected process in which curiosit y initiated engagement\, successful task completion strengthened confidenc e\, autonomy fostered ownership of learning\, and perseverance sustained p articipation through increasingly challenging activities. Creative artifac ts\, including the Saturn gown\, Martian robot\, Jupiter cake analogy\, an d Neptune–Uranus comic\, demonstrated how students transformed scientifi c concepts into meaningful visual representations while reflecting distinc t motivational experiences. The cross-case synthesis further showed that t hese motivational dimensions mutually reinforced one another rather than f unctioning independently. The findings extend theoretical understanding of motivation in blended science learning while providing implications for s cience teaching practice\, curriculum and instructional design\, and futur e research on student-centered learning environments.\n\nhttps://indico.na rit.or.th/event/238/contributions/872/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/872/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P07 - Examining the effects of a blended station rotation environm ent on students’ motivation in earth and space science learning: a prete st–posttest study DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-859@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Gilden Maecah Migalang (MSU Iligan Institute of Tech nology\; University of the Philippines Open University)\nMotivation plays a critical role in students’ engagement and persistence in learning Eart h and Space Science\, particularly when exploring abstract topics such as planetary systems\, space exploration\, and celestial phenomena. This stud y investigated the effects of a blended station rotation model on students ’ motivation toward Earth and Space Science learning. Employing a quasi- experimental one-group pretest–posttest design\, the study involved 119 Grade 10 students from four intact classes enrolled in an Earth Science el ective course at a university laboratory school in Northern Mindanao\, Phi lippines. The four-week intervention covered selected Earth and Space Scie nce topics\, including the Solar System\, terrestrial and Jovian planets\, planetary exploration\, and astronautics\, through teacher-guided instruc tion\, technology-supported learning\, and collaborative hands-on activiti es. Students’ motivation was measured before and after the intervention using an adapted Students’ Science Motivation Questionnaire II (SMQ-II). Paired-samples t-tests revealed significant improvements in students’ o verall motivation\, intrinsic motivation\, self-efficacy\, and career moti vation. Effect size analysis further showed that intrinsic motivation demo nstrated the largest standardized effect among the motivational dimensions . These findings suggest that blended station rotation models can foster m otivation by providing authentic\, interactive\, and learner-centered astr onomy learning experiences. The study underscores the potential of blended instructional approaches for promoting meaningful engagement in Earth and Space Science education.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contribu tions/859/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/859/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P06 - A systematic mapping review of astronomy education research in Southeast Asia: Trends\, innovations\, challenges\, and research direct ions DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-855@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Dharel Acut (Cebu Technological University\; Cebu No rmal University)\nAstronomy education research has expanded in response to increasing interest in space science\, technological innovation\, and int erdisciplinary STEM learning. However\, the landscape of astronomy educati on research in Southeast Asia remains fragmented\, with limited synthesis of prevailing themes\, pedagogical approaches\, innovations\, and research directions. This study maps the landscape of astronomy education research in Southeast Asia by examining research trends\, thematic focus areas\, i nstructional innovations\, key pedagogical approaches\, educational findin gs\, and persistent challenges and gaps. A systematic mapping review of 35 peer-reviewed studies was conducted using a structured screening and them atic coding process. The findings reveal that astronomy education research in the region is strongly oriented toward technology-enhanced learning\, space engineering and STEM-based initiatives\, and inquiry-oriented approa ches. Major astronomy topics investigated include general astronomy concep ts and solar system-related phenomena\, space systems and engineering appl ications\, and space science outreach. Experiential learning\, technology- enhanced learning\, inquiry-based learning\, and project-based learning em erged as dominant pedagogical approaches. Synthesized findings indicate th at most studies report improvements in conceptual understanding\, scientif ic skills\, engagement\, and interest in STEM. However\, persistent challe nges include limited infrastructure and accessibility\, scalability constr aints\, technology-related barriers\, and gaps in teacher preparedness. Th e review further highlights research gaps related to long-term impact eval uation\, broader empirical validation\, improved assessment approaches\, c urriculum integration\, and inclusive astronomy education. Overall\, astro nomy education in Southeast Asia demonstrates strong innovation potential but requires more sustained\, longitudinal\, and context-responsive resear ch to support equitable and impactful astronomy learning.\n\nhttps://indic o.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/855/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/855/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P05 - Communicating Astronomy and Planetarium Lectures to Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-854@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Mary Crystalline Araracap ()\nIntroduction\n\nPlanet arium environments—dark domes\, sudden loud sounds\, abstract celestial motions—can overwhelm children with ASD due to sensory sensitivities and preference for predictability. However\, astronomy’s visual and pattern -based nature also offers unique engagement opportunities. This discussion outlines four practical communication strategies to make planetarium lect ures accessible\, meaningful\, and enjoyable for learners on the spectrum. \n\n1. Pre-Visit Priming: Replace Surprise with Structure\n\nChildren with ASD often experience anxiety from unknown settings. Before the lecture\, provide:\n\n· Visual schedules showing the planetarium sequence (enter → sit → dark → stars → story → lights up).\n· Social narratives with photos of the dome\, projector\, and seats.\n· Sensory maps indicat ing “loud parts” or “quiet exit zones.”\n· Concrete vocabulary ca rds (e.g.\, “orbit = a path around a ball”).\n\n2. Sensory-Friendly Le cture Delivery\n\nModify the traditional planetarium format:\n\n· Gradual transitions – dim lights slowly instead of sudden blackouts.\n· Adjust able audio – lower volume\, remove unexpected sound effects (e.g.\, rock et launches).\n· Permission to regulate – allow fidget tools\, sunglass es\, or a designated “cool-down corner” without stigma.\n· Avoid abst ract analogies – instead of “as big as a million Earths\,” use physi cal contrasts (“Saturn could hold 760 Earths like this basket holds bean s”).\n\n3. Communication Techniques for Concept Clarity\n\nMany children with ASD process literal\, concrete information best. In the dome:\n\n· Break time into segments – after 10 minutes\, turn on low blue light and recap with hand gestures.\n· Use repetitive verbal cues – “Look up – now we see the North Star.”\n· Pair every celestial event with a ta ctile or kinesthetic action – “When I say ‘spin\,’ turn your chair slowly – that’s Earth’s rotation.”\n· Limit metaphoric language – replace “the Sun is a giant ball of fire” with “the Sun is a ver y hot\, glowing sphere of gas.”\n\n4. Embedding Special Interests & Pred ictable Routines\n\nLeverage common ASD strengths: pattern recognition\, d etail focus\, and intense interests.\n\n· Offer interest-based versions – a “Train Constellation” tour or “Planet colors” focus for a ch ild fascinated by colors.\n· Use the same opening ritual each time – “First\, lights fade. Second\, three blinking stars appear. Third\, we c ount down: 3-2-1 – dome.”\n· Provide a visual check-sheet of things t o find (e.g.\, “Find the red dot – that’s Mars”).\n\nConclusion\n\ nCommunicating astronomy to children with ASD does not require simplifying the science\; it requires adapting the delivery to respect sensory and co gnitive needs. By using priming\, sensory modulation\, literal language\, and structured routines\, planetarium educators can transform potential di stress into genuine discovery. These strategies align with universal desig n principles—benefiting all learners while making astronomy truly inclus ive.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/854/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/854/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P04 - Pre-service science teachers’ evaluation and pedagogical i ntegration of augmented reality applications in earth science instruction DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-853@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Melissa Rodriguez (Cebu Technological University)\, Maricho Butalid (Cebu Technological University)\, Marjohn Cabo (Cebu Techn ological University)\nThe integration of emerging digital technologies suc h as augmented reality (AR) presents new possibilities for enhancing scien ce teaching\, particularly in representing abstract and dynamic Earth scie nce concepts. However\, its instructional value depends on how teachers in terpret\, adapt\, and embed these technologies within classroom practices. Hence\, this study examined pre-service science teachers’ evaluation an d pedagogical integration of AR applications in Earth science instruction using a convergent mixed-methods design. Participants were third-year pre- service science teachers from a public higher education institution in Cen tral Visayas\, Philippines. The study utilized AR applications covering co mets\, meteors\, and asteroids\; earthquakes and faults\; and typhoons. Qu antitative data were collected using a researcher-developed Likert-scale q uestionnaire based on the Technology Acceptance Model\, while qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and analyzed themati cally. Results showed that AR applications were highly evaluated in terms of content relevance\, usefulness\, and usability. However\, qualitative f indings revealed that AR was primarily positioned as a supplementary visua lization tool rather than a transformative instructional approach. Integra tion was shaped by contextual constraints\, pedagogical reasoning\, and de veloping teacher cognition. The findings highlight the need for teacher ed ucation programs to move beyond technology exposure toward reflective\, de sign-oriented preparation that supports meaningful AR integration.\n\nhttp s://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/853/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/853/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P03 - A DIY Light Shielding Hood for Reducing Light Pollution and Improving Night Sky Visibility in Cebu\, Philippines DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-851@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: James Khennet Aying (Cebu Technological University )\nArtificial light at night increasingly obscures the stars\, contributes to skyglow and glare\, and diminishes opportunities for public engagement with the natural night sky. Although advanced lighting technologies can m itigate these effects\, their cost often limits adoption in many local com munities. This study evaluated a DIY Light Shielding Hood as an affordable intervention for improving outdoor lighting performance in urban and prov incial settings in Cebu\, Philippines. A mixed-methods experimental design was employed to compare lighting conditions before and after installation of the shielding hood. Measurements included upward light spill\, ground illuminance\, visible star counts\, and observer-rated glare. Field testin g was conducted under comparable nighttime conditions in locations represe nting contrasting ambient-light environments. The intervention produced su bstantial improvements across all indicators. Upward light spill decreased by approximately 99% in both settings\, while ground-level illumination i ncreased through the redirection of previously wasted light. Visible star counts increased by 110% in the provincial setting and 66.6% in the urban setting. Observer-reported glare was also markedly reduced\, resulting in improved visual comfort. Statistical analyses confirmed that these changes were highly significant (p \n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contr ibutions/851/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/851/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P02 - The First Planetarium in Mindanao: DOST-PAGASA Mindanao Plan etarium DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-848@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Lyka Sambrano (DOST-PAGASA)\nAstronomy\, as a scient ific discipline\, has remained largely absent from formal academic curricu la in Mindanao\, leaving a gap in opportunities for students and the publi c to explore the wonders of the universe. With this\, the establishment of the first planetarium developed by DOST-PAGASA in Molugan\, El Salvador C ity\, Misamis Oriental marks a groundbreaking step toward making astronomy accessible to the region. This facility is envisioned not merely as an ed ucational space but as a cultural and scientific hub that fosters curiosit y\, discovery\, and appreciation of the cosmos.\n\nThe planetarium offers immersive shows that simulate the night sky\, allowing audiences to experi ence celestial phenomena in a vivid and engaging manner. Complementing the se shows are interactive exhibits that highlight astronomical concepts\, i nstruments\, and discoveries\, bridging the gap between abstract science a nd tangible learning. The planetarium also features an observation deck wh ere stargazing activities are conducted\, enabling visitors to directly ob serve stars\, planets\, and other celestial bodies. These activities provi de hands-on exposure that strengthens both scientific understanding and pe rsonal connection to the universe. By integrating education and entertainm ent\, the Mindanao PAGASA Regional Services Division (MPRSD) Planetarium s erves as a vital source of astronomical knowledge in a region where formal courses are lacking. It not only enriches public awareness of astronomy b ut also inspires future generations to pursue scientific inquiry\, fosteri ng a deeper appreciation of the skies above.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th /event/238/contributions/848/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/848/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:P01 - Optimal Site Selection for Sidewalk Astronomy at Maragondon\ , Cavite using Multicriteria Decision Analysis DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-842@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Marion Rodrigo III Mariñas (Cavite State University Naic)\nSidewalk astronomy is a public-oriented scientific activity that a ims increase public’s awareness\, understanding and appreciation of astr onomy. However\, to achieve this goal\, organizers of sidewalk astronomy m ust be able to consider several factors to maximize the learning experienc e of the public. In this study\, light pollution\, site area\, sightlines\ , terrain\, and accessibility were identified as the key criteria in selec ting optimal site for conducting sidewalk astronomy at Maragondon\, Cavite \, a third-class municipality in Cavite that approximately 60 kilometers a way from Metro Manila. These criteria were ranked by sidewalk astronomy or ganizers as validators based on their importance in conducting sidewalk as tronomy. A research instrument was also validated to assess the status for qualitative criteria\, namely: sightlines and accessibility. Ten sites we re pre-selected at Maragondon\, Cavite where sidewalk astronomy activities could possibly be conducted. The qualitative and quantitative data obtain ed from the five key criteria from these sites were subjected to normaliza tion and multicriteria decision analysis (MCDA) through simple additive we ighting (SAW) to determine the optimal site at Maragondon\, Cavite. Conseq uently\, the MCDA was able to identify the optimal site given that the fiv e criteria have conflicting objective. The analysis identified that areas further from urban centers\, given that they have low levels of light poll ution\, larger site area\, clearer sightlines and flatter terrain could be marked as the optimal site for conducting sidewalk astronomy activities. In the future\, this study aims to create a baseline data to determine the most optimal site in the larger research locale.\n\nhttps://indico.narit. or.th/event/238/contributions/842/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/842/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:W02 - 2-Stage Water Rocket Workshop: A Model for Promoting Active Learning and Developing Student Competencies through Integrated STEM Educa tion DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T060000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T070000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-889@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: jessada Keeratibharat (NARIT)\nThe 2-Stage Water Roc ket Workshop is a hands-on learning activity that helps schools promote Ac tive Learning by giving students the opportunity to learn through direct e xperience. The workshop makes difficult physics concepts easier to underst and by allowing students to build\, test\, and launch a two-stage water ro cket with a stage separation mechanism. Through this process\, students ga in a clear understanding of the concept of multi-stage rockets and the bas ic principles of physics in a practical way. The activity also inspires in terest in science\, engineering\, and space technology while connecting cl assroom knowledge with real-world applications.\nDuring the workshop\, stu dents follow the Engineering Design Process\, including identifying a prob lem\, planning\, recognizing design constraints\, building a prototype\, t esting\, and improving their design. The activity also integrates the four areas of STEM Education into a single learning experience: Science (motio n\, force\, and air pressure)\, Technology (tools and mechanisms)\, Engine ering (designing\, building\, and improving the rocket)\, and Mathematics (measurement\, calculation\, and ratios).\nThis learning approach also hel ps schools develop important student competencies\, including critical thi nking\, problem-solving\, teamwork\, and communication. Because the worksh op involves challenging engineering tasks\, students also learn resilience by understanding that failure is a natural part of the learning process. They are encouraged to analyze mistakes\, improve their designs\, and try again. As a result\, the workshop provides a challenging\, enjoyable\, and motivating learning experience that supports the development of well-roun ded learners and offers an effective STEM learning model that can be appli ed in schools.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/889/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/889/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O50 - From Abstract Space Science to Hands-on Inquiry: A Pilot Lea rning Framework for Children Aged 9–12 DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T063000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T064500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-904@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: DANUPON MARKJARD (National Astronomical Research Ins titute of Thailand (NARIT))\nAstronomy is often taught to primary students through facts and memorization\, despite its potential for visual\, spati al\, and inquiry-based learning. This practice paper presents ASTRO KIDS S UMMER CAMP\, a one-day learning framework developed by the National Astron omical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT). It aims to translate abstra ct space-science concepts into tangible experiences through which children observe\, construct\, question\, and explain.\n\nThe framework was pilote d in four sessions for children aged 9–12\, with 30–36 participants pe r session. Participants joined through open\, fee-based public enrollment and therefore introduced a bias upon economic status\, rather than reflect ing the true population. Each session combined an age-adapted planetarium program\, one or two hands-on workshops\, and telescope observation. Selec ted sessions also included guided visits to NARIT facilities\, such as sat ellite assembly and testing areas\, cleanrooms\, telescope-maintenance fac ilities\, and telescope-control rooms.\n\nThe workshops emphasized active construction and scientifically guided imagination. Children assembled beg inner telescopes\, designed imaginary organisms adapted to specified envir onments\, created exoplanet models\, and explored astronomical concepts th rough embodied activities. The resulting artifacts could be taken home for continued exploration.\n\nEvidence from the pilot consisted of facilitato r observation\, informal interviews\, and examination of participants’ w ork. These sources indicated active participation and opportunities for ch ildren to describe spatial relationships\, justify design choices\, ask qu estions\, and revise their ideas. However\, the pilot included no pre- and post-assessments\, comparison group\, independent observers\, or longitud inal follow-up. It therefore demonstrates feasibility but does not establi sh cognitive improvement or long-term learning outcomes.\n\nThe framework shows how planetarium experiences\, hands-on construction\, authentic rese arch environments\, and sky observation can be integrated into an informal learning program. It positions astronomy not only as subject content\, bu t also as a context for practising scientific questioning\, spatial repres entation\, evidence-based imagination\, and communication.\n\nhttps://indi co.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/904/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/904/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O47 - Dark and Quiet Skies: An In-House Astronomy Camp for PAGASA Employees DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T070000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T071500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-921@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Roumjer Jomes Mojado (DOST-PAGASA)\nDark and quiet s kies are essential for astronomical observations\, scientific research\, a nd preserving humanity's connection to the night sky. However\, awareness of light pollution and the importance of protecting dark skies is often li mited\, even among employees working within institutions that support mete orology and astronomy. To promote greater appreciation of the night sky an d strengthen institutional awareness\, the DOST-PAGASA Space Science and A stronomy Section organized an in-house astronomy camp for non-astronomy PA GASA employees held at the PAGASA Tanay Synoptic and Upper-Air Station\, T anay\, Rizal. The camp introduced participants to the significance of dark and quiet skies through interactive lectures and hands-on activities focu sed on astrophotography\, guided telescope observations\, and discussions on responsible lighting practices. By experiencing dark skies firsthand\, participants gained a deeper understanding of how environmental conditions affect astronomical observations and why preserving them is vital for res earch\, education\, and public outreach.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/eve nt/238/contributions/921/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/921/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O46 - Designing Darkness: From a Phuket Luxury Resort to Accessibl e Astrotourism for Everyone. DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T064500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T070000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-918@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Natcha Boonroj ()\nAstrotourism is increasingly reco gnised as a form of sustainable tourism that connects astronomical observa tion\, environmental conservation\, science communication\, and place-base d experience. However\, developing astrotourism in established tourism des tinations remains challenging\, particularly in areas affected by light po llution\, tropical weather\, seasonal cloud cover\, dense tourism activity \, and the operational demands of hospitality. This presentation examines a practitioner-led case study of supporting an ultra-luxury hotel in Phuke t\, Thailand\, in its effort to achieve Dark Sky certification. The proces s required not only adjustments to lighting practices\, but also coordinat ion among hotel management\, staff\, guests\, guides\, and other stakehold ers while balancing environmental objectives with safety\, aesthetics\, an d service standards.\nDrawing on the speaker’s experience as an astrogui de at the hotel\, the presentation also explores how visitors engage with the night sky. Their responses were shaped not only by scientific knowledg e\, but also by cultural background\, emotional expectations\, attention\, comfort with darkness\, and the social context of the activity. These obs ervations suggest that effective astrotourism should be designed as a huma n-centred experience combining astronomy interpretation\, storytelling\, h ospitality\, and an understanding of visitor behaviour.\nFollowing this wo rk\, the speaker established an independent astrotourism initiative aimed at making stargazing accessible beyond luxury hospitality. Activities were organised across Thailand\, from northern destinations to relatively dark locations near Bangkok\, while also exploring stargazing as a tool for re laxation\, mindfulness\, retreat\, and psychological restoration. The pres entation argues that accessible astrotourism can provide a strong social f oundation for Dark Sky conservation by embedding meaningful experiences of darkness into tourism\, education\, leisure\, and everyday life\, thereby strengthening public awareness of light pollution and long-term support f or protecting the night sky.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contr ibutions/918/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/918/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:W08 - Co-Lab: Creating Accessible Astronomy Design Workshop DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T050000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T060000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-867@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Julie Ann Delda ()\nThis workshop introduces partici pants to inclusive design in astronomy education using a hands-on\, design thinking approach. Based on the idea that “space should be for everyone \,” the workshop explores how people with different abilities\, includin g visual\, hearing\, cognitive\, and mobility challenges\, experience astr onomy.\n\nParticipants will engage in group activities such as brainstormi ng\, idea clustering\, and prototyping to identify barriers and develop ac cessible solutions. Using tools like the KJ Method and feasibility–susta inability analysis\, they will transform ideas into practical concepts and present them through short scenarios and demonstrations.\n\nThe workshop encourages collaboration\, creativity\, and empathy\, helping participants understand the importance of designing inclusive science experiences. It aims to equip learners with basic tools and perspectives to make astronomy more accessible to a wider audience.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/ 238/contributions/867/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/867/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O42 - Developing Student Astronomy Ambassadors through the Vajirav udh College Astronomy Club: An Urban Model for Astronomy Education and Sci ence Communication DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T034500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-887@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Suteewat Nimruang ()\nThe VC Astronomy Club was esta blished to cultivate students as competent astronomy ambassadors by integr ating scientific knowledge\, observational skills\, leadership\, and scien ce communication into a sustainable educational framework. The program add resses the challenge of delivering high-quality astronomy education in an urban environment where severe light pollution significantly restricts dir ect astronomical observations. Rather than considering these environmental limitations as obstacles\, the club employs inquiry-based and experientia l learning approaches to transform constraints into opportunities for scie ntific exploration and innovation.\n The educational framework combi nes classroom instruction\, hands-on observational activities\, telescope operation and maintenance\, and public outreach with participation in nati onal and international astronomy camps\, workshops\, and academic exchange programs. These authentic learning experiences enable students to strengt hen their understanding of astronomical concepts\, develop practical obser vational competencies\, and apply scientific inquiry in real-world context s. Simultaneously\, students cultivate transferable skills\, including com munication\, teamwork\, critical thinking\, and leadership.\n A key objective of the VC Astronomy Club is to empower students to become effect ive science communicators who can translate complex astronomical concepts into engaging and accessible learning experiences for the public. Through organizing observation nights\, exhibitions\, and community outreach activ ities\, students actively promote scientific literacy while inspiring curi osity and appreciation for astronomy among diverse audiences.\n The V C Astronomy Club demonstrates that urban light pollution does not preclude meaningful astronomy education. Instead\, strategic educational design\, experiential learning\, and continuous student engagement can foster scien tific competence\, strengthen public participation in science\, and inspir e the next generation of learners to explore the universe. This model prov ides a sustainable and transferable framework for astronomy education that can be adopted by schools facing similar environmental challenges.\n\nhtt ps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/887/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/887/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O41 - NARIT Youth Camp: Entry-level astronomy camp for young adult s DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T034500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-885@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Farprakay Jiarakoopt (NARIT)\nIn the part\, "Astrono my Camp" was a relatively new concept in Thailand\, with most youth having no prior experience in astronomy. The National Astronomical Research Inst itute of Thailand (NARIT) recognized this gap and organized “NARIT Youth Camp” (NYC) under the theme "Play\, Learn\, and Stargaze." The goal is to foster a positive attitude towards learning astronomy among Thai youth by allowing them to use astronomical equipment themselves and introducing them to career paths in astronomy through professional astronomers. This h elps broaden their view of astronomy as a realistic career option and prov ides guidance for future educational choices.\n\nCurrently\, NARIT has bee n running the camp for over 20 years\, starting alongside its establishmen t. To date\, 3\,030 participants have completed the camp out of over 20\,0 00 applicants from across Thailand. Data from the past three years (2018-2 020\; 5 camps) shows that many participants have developed a greater inter est in science or engineering fields after attending the camp\, often cont inuing to engage with NARIT activities. Some even pursue careers directly related to astronomy\, indicating that the camp effectively promotes susta ined interest in astronomy among the youth. Many of new NARIT employees no wadays have been alumni to the NYC\, which is a testament to how effective NYC was at fostering a good impression in astronomy.\n\nhttps://indico.na rit.or.th/event/238/contributions/885/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/885/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O39 - KS-AIC 2025: A Student-Led Astronomy Academic Conference for Developing Young Researchers and Astronomy Communication Leaders in Rural Thailand. DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T030000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T031500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-880@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Kanokkan Ninkamhaeng (Khuruprachasan School\, Uthai Thani Chai Nat Secondary Educational Service Area Office\, Thailand)\, Wit chaphon puangkaew (Khuruprachasan School\, Uthai Thani Chai Nat Secondary Educational Service Area Office\, Thailand)\, Phongpathapee Thaikiew (Kur uprachasan School\, Secondary Educational Service Area Office Uthai Thani Chai Nat\, Thailand)\nAstronomy education in schools should not be limited to the transmission of content in the classroom. It should provide studen ts with opportunities to ask scientific questions\, construct knowledge\, present their work\, receive academic feedback\, and communicate astronomy to others in meaningful ways. This abstract presents KS-AIC 2025: K.S. As tronomical Innovation Conference – Student Academic Conference 2025\, a school-based student astronomy academic conference developed at Khuruprach asan School\, Chainat\, Thailand. The conference was co-designed and imple mented by teacher advisors\, student leaders\, and network schools\, with the aim of transforming students from “knowledge receivers” into “kn owledge creators” and developing them as young researchers\, science com municators\, and astronomy activity leaders in a rural school context.\nFr om the perspective of student co-founders and student organizers\, KS-AIC 2025 was not merely a competition or a project presentation platform. Rath er\, it functioned as a participatory learning space in which students pla yed active roles in developing the activity concept\, preparing research p rojects\, coordinating the event\, organizing exhibitions\, presenting ora l and poster sessions\, facilitating learning stations\, communicating wit h participants\, and sharing astronomy knowledge with peers and students f rom network schools. Through this process\, students learned to see themse lves not only as learners\, but also as creators\, communicators\, collabo rators\, and contributors to the scientific learning community.\nKS-AIC 20 25 consisted of prior project selection\, Oral Presentation and Poster Pre sentation sessions\, academic feedback from expert committees\, astronomy workshops and games\, planetarium-based learning\, Stellarium activities\, and real-sky observations using naked-eye observation and telescopes. The activities were supported by network schools\, guest speakers\, astronomi cal equipment\, and astronomy education partners. The program was designed to connect academic learning with authentic scientific experiences and to make astronomy learning accessible\, engaging\, and meaningful for studen ts at different levels.\nThe implementation resulted in 53 selected studen t teams\, including 25 oral presentation teams and 28 poster presentation teams\, with more than 400 participants from Khuruprachasan School and sev en network schools. In addition\, student projects and student leaders fro m KS-AIC were further extended into six volunteer astronomy camps for prim ary network schools\, reaching at least 1\,090 participants. These outcome s demonstrate that a student academic conference can serve as an effective mechanism for expanding astronomy learning from secondary schools to prim ary schools and broader educational communities.\nThe results indicate tha t KS-AIC 2025 promoted students’ analytical thinking\, scientific inquir y\, academic communication\, innovation\, leadership\, teamwork\, and publ ic-mindedness. It also strengthened students’ confidence in asking scien tific questions\, explaining scientific information\, receiving expert fee dback\, and communicating astronomy to learners and the public in meaningf ul ways. The activity demonstrates the potential of student-centered astro nomy education and shows that rural schools can develop systematic\, meani ngful\, and scalable academic platforms.\nKS-AIC 2025 therefore serves as a model of a student-led astronomy academic conference that not only devel ops students as young researchers\, but also fosters a culture of learning \, knowledge sharing\, and astronomy communication for society. The model aligns with international goals in astronomy education by promoting studen t participation\, equitable access to astronomy learning\, and youth leade rship in public science communication.\n**Keywords:** student academic con ference\, astronomy education\, young researchers\, science communication\ , student leadership\, rural school\, participatory learning\n\nhttps://in dico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/880/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/880/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O37 - ASEAN Astronomy Camp (AAC) DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T023000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T024500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-841@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: yadanan inta ()\nThe ASEAN Astronomy Camp (AAC) is a regional youth outreach program organized by the National Astronomical Re search Institute of Thailand (NARIT) and the International Training Centre in Astronomy under the auspices of UNESCO (ITCA). Originally established before the COVID-19 pandemic\, the camp successfully relaunched in 2025\, welcoming students aged 15–19 from across ASEAN and beyond. High school is a critical time for young people\, as many begin thinking seriously abo ut their future education and career paths. Moving beyond traditional clas sroom learning\, the AAC provides students with direct access to world-cla ss observatories\, cutting-edge research facilities\, and space technology that may not be available in their home countries\, helping them explore whether a career in science and astronomy is the right path for them. For many\, this is their first time stepping into a world-class scientific env ironment\, and that kind of experience can be life-changing.\n\nOver two c onsecutive years since its relaunch\, the AAC has shown strong and growing international interest. In 2025\, the camp received 317 applications and selected 42 participants from 11 Asian countries. In 2026\, 206 applicatio ns came in from 12 countries — including first-time participants from Fi nland\, Italy\, the Dominican Republic\, and the United Arab Emirates — showing that the program's reach is expanding well beyond ASEAN.\n\nEach e dition offers a range of hands-on educational activities designed to spark curiosity and open doors to science careers. Core highlights include star gazing atop Doi Inthanon — Thailand's highest peak — and visits to NAR IT's advanced observatories and innovation laboratories. In the most recen t edition\, new activities were introduced\, including Astro Rally — a t eam-based station rotation game featuring astronomy photo matching\, const ellation charades\, vocabulary guessing\, and creative video-making.These collaborative activities were highly well-received\, effectively fostering peer learning and science communication skills among participants.\n\nAt its heart\, the AAC is a platform for connection\, where young people from diverse cultures and languages build friendships\, discover shared passio ns\, and lay the groundwork for future collaborations — proving that ast ronomy has the power to bring people together and inspire the next generat ion of science leaders from the region to the global stage.\n\nKeywords: A SEAN\, Astronomy Camp\, International\, Astronomy Education\, Youth\, STEM \, Cultural Exchange\,\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributio ns/841/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/841/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O31 - The Living Literature -- Towards a Pedagogy of the Sky throu gh Malay Proverbs and Idioms DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T023000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261125T024500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-858@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: YAM Pengiran Anak Hamlatul Arsy Mulia Bolkiah (The C urious Playgrounds / Brunei Astronomical Society)\nMalay peribahasa and id ioms involving bintang and bulan rarely agree on what the sky is for. In o ne register\, it is mirror: bagai bulan dipagar bintang\, (like the moon f enced round by stars)\, lent to a face of unmatched beauty. In a second\, the sky is not borrowed but worn — bintang hati\, (the star of one's hea rt)\, naming the person loved most\, the star not compared to a life but s tanding in for it. In a third\, rarer register\, the sky is simply named w ith care: bintang timur (one bright object given several precise names) — barat\, johar\, kejora\, pagi\, zuhrah — depending on when and where it was watched. This paper reads these three registers not as separate cu riosities but as one layered relationship with the sky\, coexisting inside a single body of language. Each register implies a different intensity an d purpose of looking: the sky glanced at for likeness\, the sky trusted as destiny\, the sky observed closely enough to require precision.\n\nThe Ma lay language carries this layering because it was never confined to one na tion — it became the lingua franca of the maritime Southeast Asian world \, shaped across centuries of trade\, migration\, and exchange between coa st and coast. Its proverbs and idioms compress observation\, ethics\, and belief into forms short enough to survive being spoken rather than written \, passed down across generations who may never have shared a single teach er or text. This paper takes its bearing\, in part\, from Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III's own regard for Malay as a language of poetry and cultural depth — the conviction that a language capable of carrying feeling with such precision is also capable of carrying knowledge\, and that neither u se diminishes the other. Wawasan 2035 calls Bruneians to become an educate d\, resilient people\, rooted in identity that never had to choose between the traditional and the forward-looking. To read the sky through Malay pr overbs and idioms is to answer that call in kind — proof that language i tself can be a vessel for progress\, carrying inherited knowledge forward rather than setting it aside.\n\nThe inquiry sits within The Living Litera ture\, an ongoing research methodology developed by The Curious Playground s treating Southeast Asian intangible heritage as living knowledge to be r eactivated rather than archived. Each cycle of the project anchors on a si ngle element and moves through investigation\, translation\, and activatio n\, arriving at a creative output built for the continuity of heritage and culture rather than its preservation alone. This cycle is undertaken in c ollaboration with the Brunei Astronomical Society\, keeping the sky-readin g answerable to astronomical practice as much as to cultural research.\n\n A wider illustrated compendium on Malay language and astronomy grows from this cycle — its translation phase\, and a public-facing work rather tha n an academic one. Where peribahasa already live in daily speech\, classro oms\, and family memory but are rarely read for the sky-knowledge folded i nside them\, the compendium aims to make that folded knowledge visible\, p airing each proverb with illustration that holds both its human meaning an d the observation underneath it. For Malay-speaking communities\, it offer s a way back into language already known\, seen freshly. For astronomy edu cators and planetarium practitioners across the region\, it offers cultura lly-rooted material for outreach that doesn't need to import metaphor from elsewhere to make the sky feel close to home. And for the wider documenta tion of Malay heritage\, it argues for proverb's continued relevance as a living record of observation.\n\nThis paper marks the beginning of a colla boration with the Brunei Astronomical Society on the wider compendium. Ahe ad of the conference\, we will carry out workshops in Brunei testing the t hree-register framework in practice\, and this oral presentation will shar e those findings alongside the research\, explorations and illustrations d eveloped so far. Following the conference\, the work will continue — fee ding directly into the compendium and into an illustrated book intended fo r use as educational material for the Brunei Astronomical Society and as c ontent for future tourism and outreach events in Brunei. \n\nBeyond Brunei \, this framework is offered as something the wider region can easily take up and adapt to its own languages\, in the hope that it can help others n ot only appreciate their own culture and heritage\, but arrive at a quiete r gratitude — for a sky and a universe that has always belonged to every one equally. The paper closes by asking what astronomy education might gai n from a public willing to hold the sky the way this language always has.\ n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/858/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/858/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:W03 - Teaching Earth's Rotation Through a Shadow Compass Learning Kit: An Inquiry-Based Astronomy Education Approach in Cebu\, Philippines DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T050000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T060000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-850@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Krystal Marie Ytang (Cebu Technological University )\nUnderstanding Earth's rotation and the Sun's apparent daily motion is f undamental to astronomy education\, yet these concepts are often difficult for learners to visualize through textbook-based instruction alone. This study developed and evaluated a Shadow Compass Learning Kit\, a low-cost i nstructional resource designed to support direct observation of changing s hadow positions throughout the day. The kit consists of a compass-aligned baseboard with a vertical gnomon that enables systematic tracking of shado w orientation under natural sunlight. Field observations were conducted at Cebu Technological University – Main Campus\, Cebu City\, Philippines\, with measurements recorded at two-hour intervals from morning to late aft ernoon. Shadow positions were documented through tracings\, photographs\, and observation logs to examine temporal changes in orientation. Results r evealed a consistent progression of shadow positions corresponding to the changing position of the Sun in the sky. Shadows shifted from the northwes t during the morning toward the east in the late afternoon\, with the grea test directional change occurring around midday. Although minor variations in measured angles were observed\, the overall pattern remained stable ac ross observation periods\, providing clear observational evidence of Earth 's rotation. The findings demonstrate that the Shadow Compass Learning Kit can effectively transform an abstract astronomical concept into an observ able phenomenon. Constructed from inexpensive and locally available materi als\, the kit offers a practical approach for supporting inquiry-based lea rning\, promoting scientific literacy\, and expanding access to astronomy education in diverse learning environments. The study highlights the poten tial of simple observational tools to strengthen astronomy communication a nd foster meaningful engagement with fundamental Earth–Sun relationships .\n\nKeywords: astronomy education\, Earth's rotation\, solar motion\, inq uiry-based learning\, shadow orientation\, science communication\n\nhttps: //indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/850/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/850/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O27 - Science Centre Singapore's Approaches to Inclusive Astronomy Experiences DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T030000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T031500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-861@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Jogie Ko (Science Centre Board)\nAstronomy is for ev eryone\, yet connecting with broader audiences takes deliberate effort. To reach the full diversity of human backgrounds\, abilities and motivations \, Science Centre Singapore (SCS) has taken a range of intentional approac hes\, such as building multiple entry points for non-enthusiasts\; designi ng experiences for diverse abilities and availabilities\; and refreshing p rogrammes for sustained engagement. Beyond programming\, inclusion is wove n into our diverse team of educators and our physical infrastructure. Join us as we share the strategies\, lessons\, and thinking behind how we some times 'disguise' astronomy\, because meaningful connection begins with mee ting people where they are\, on their own terms.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.o r.th/event/238/contributions/861/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/861/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O23 - Accessible Astronomy Education with 3D-Printed Models: The i w3D Studio Project DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T033000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T034500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-876@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Vernesa Smolčić ()\nHands-on activities can signi ficantly improve engagement and understanding in astronomy education\, yet many educational resources remain expensive\, difficult to obtain\, or la ck the level of scientific accuracy required for effective astronomy educa tion.\n\nI will introduce iw3D Studio\, a project focused on developing op en and customizable 3D-printable models for astronomy and STEM education. The project includes tactile learning materials\, planetary models\, lunar phase and telescope kits\, and other interactive resources designed for c lassrooms\, outreach events\, and informal learning environments.\n\nThe t alk will present the design philosophy behind the project\, examples of ed ucational applications\, and experiences gained through science communicat ion and astronomy outreach activities in Croatia. The presentation will al so discuss how 3D printing can support accessible\, low-cost\, and locally available resources for astronomy communication worldwide.\n\nhttps://ind ico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/876/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/876/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O22 - LED projection technology in planetariums DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T031500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T033000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-924@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Alexander Adli (RSA Cosmos)\, Benjamin Cabut (RSA Co smos)\nIn recent years\, LED technology has begun to replace traditional p rojection technology in planetariums through the use of active screens pow ered by millions of individual LEDs. While this technology enables higher brightness and contrast\, international vendors face unique challenges cau sed by LEDs\, especially in relation to the dark environments typical of p lanetariums. This paper describes LED technology in terms of its implement ation in the planetarium\, current status\, technical challenges\, and fut ure perspectives.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/92 4/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/924/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O24 - A Mobile Planetarium as a Gateway to Astronomy Education: Th e Syrian Experience (2005–2011) and Future Perspectives** DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T034500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261124T040000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-927@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Turkieh Jbour (Syrian Astronomical Association)\nThi s presentation highlights the experience of the mobile planetarium operate d by the Syrian Astronomical Association between 2005 and 2011\, and its r ole as an effective tool for astronomy education and public outreach. Thro ugh interactive programs\, the planetarium reached children\, students\, a nd the wider community across different regions\, fostering scientific cur iosity\, promoting interest in science and space\, and transforming astron omy concepts into an inspiring and accessible learning experience. These a ctivities were later interrupted due to the challenges of the war\; howeve r\, the experience demonstrated the significant value of planetariums as p latforms for informal education and science communication. As a member of the Office of Astronomy Education and Outreach in Syria\, affiliated with the International Astronomical Union (IAU)\, I aim to share this experienc e\, exchange knowledge with the international community\, and benefit from global practices as we currently work toward launching a new mobile plane tarium in Syria and developing sustainable astronomy outreach and educatio n programs for the future.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contrib utions/927/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/927/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O18 - Astronomy Research-Based Learning as an Alternative to Class room Education DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T084500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T090000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-878@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: sawatkamol pichadee ()\nAstronomy is a globally reco gnized field that inspires people of all ages and serves as a powerful gat eway to science\, technology\, engineering\, and mathematics (STEM). The N ational Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT) is dedicated t o advancing astronomy and astrophysics through scientific research\, educa tion\, and public outreach. One of its key educational initiatives is the Astronomy Research-Based Learning Workshop\, which provides an alternative learning experience beyond the traditional classroom.\nThe workshop adopt s a research-based learning approach\, allowing students to gain hands-on experience by conducting authentic astronomical research. Through this pro gram\, participants develop practical astronomy skills while strengthening their understanding of the scientific method and critical thinking—comp etencies that are essential for the 21st century but are often underemphas ized in conventional education. Students analyze real observational data c ollected by robotic telescopes\, learn to use professional astronomical so ftware\, and conduct their research under the guidance of experienced astr onomers.\nMore importantly\, the workshop encourages students to think lik e scientists. Rather than simply following predetermined activities\, they are encouraged to formulate their own research questions\, investigate as tronomical phenomena that interest them\, and develop evidence-based concl usions. This inquiry-driven approach helps students cultivate creativity\, problem-solving skills\, and scientific curiosity while providing valuabl e insight into astronomy as a potential career.\nTo further strengthen res earch-based extracurricular learning\, NARIT established the Thai Astronom ical Conference (TACs)\, a national platform where secondary school studen ts present their astronomy research projects. Over the past decade\, TACs has showcased more than 500 student research projects\, providing young re searchers with opportunities to exchange ideas\, receive feedback from exp erts\, and gain valuable presentation experience. During the past three ye ars\, outstanding projects have also been recognized with medals\, encoura ging students to continue pursuing research and innovation in astronomy.\n Through these initiatives\, NARIT demonstrates that astronomy can be far m ore than a classroom subject. By engaging students in authentic scientific research and providing opportunities to communicate their findings\, rese arch-based learning not only enhances scientific knowledge but also develo ps the critical thinking\, creativity\, and research skills needed to prep are the next generation of scientists and innovators.\n\nhttps://indico.na rit.or.th/event/238/contributions/878/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/878/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O17 - Comparative analysis of Astronomy and Space Science topics i n the middle and high school curricula of Vietnam and the Philippines DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T083000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T084500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-896@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: PAUL CHRISTIAN YANG-ED (Laniakea Ventures)\nIn South east Asia\, there is a growing need by governments like those of the Phili ppines and Vietnam to develop their country’s respective space industrie s. The ability to do quality astronomy research\, while not directly leadi ng to economic gains\, is a marker of academic prestige that could also be a useful part of nation building narratives these governments espouse. Co rollary to these development and patriotic goals is to produce a reliable pool of homegrown workers with the requisite motivation\, skills\, and tal ent. One specific way governments can do this is by crafting a science edu cation curriculum which identifies and narrows down the priority topics th at would need to be given time in classroom instruction. This paper undert ook a comparison of the astronomy and space science topics in the science curricula of the Philippines and Vietnam\, with a focus on middle and high school levels\, to have a preliminary assessment of the priorities and di rection of each state’s astronomy and space science education. Curriculu m mapping and content analysis were used to compare the competencies and l earning goals of each country side by side. The congruence of their topics ’ coverage with the broader Big Ideas in Astronomy identified by the Int ernational Astronomical Union (IAU) as well as the astronomy and space sci ence-related competencies of the United States’ Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) were also assessed. The Bloom’s taxonomy framework was then used to rank how much of Vietnam and Philippines’ astronomy and spa ce science competencies align with particular levels of thinking. From the se results\, potential strengths and weaknesses were identified for furthe r action by stakeholders and education policymakers in each respective cou ntry.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/896/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/896/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O14 - Enhancing STEM Engagement at the High School Level: A Pedago gical Framework for Optics and Waves Instruction via Astronomical Instrume ntation DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T074500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T080000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-877@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Luthfiandari Luthfiandari (Bosscha Observatory)\nAst ronomy serves as a potent catalyst for advancing Science\, Technology\, En gineering\, and Mathematics (STEM) education\, leveraging its inherent vis ual appeal to stimulate intellectual curiosity regarding the cosmos. Withi n the context of secondary education in Indonesia\, however\, physics is f requently delivered through a predominantly theoretical lens\, often lacki ng clear links to practical applications. This abstraction can lead to sig nificant conceptual disconnects and a subsequent decline in student engage ment. To address this pedagogical challenge\, the Bosscha Observatory\, ac ting as an academic laboratory under the Bandung Institute of Technology ( ITB)\, has developed a strategic framework designed to bridge the gap betw een theoretical physics and experiential application.\n\nThis framework in tegrates astronomical principles into the high school physics curriculum\, specifically targeting the domains of optics and waves. By utilizing astr onomical observing instruments as primary didactic tools\, the program tra nsforms abstract physical laws into observable\, tangible phenomena. The i nitiative involves the systematic development of hands-on modular activiti es and workshops that are rigorously aligned with the Indonesian National Physics Curriculum. These modules not only reinforce mandatory learning ob jectives but also introduce supplementary content\, thereby extending the students' knowledge base beyond standardized requirements. Through this in quiry-based approach\, students are encouraged to explore the functional r elevance of physics in both scientific research and daily life.\n\nThe pro gram is projected to yield substantial improvements in scientific literacy and foster a sustained vocational interest in STEM disciplines. By reinfo rcing the nexus between classroom instruction and real-world application\, this initiative highlights the observatory's critical role in demonstrati ng how fundamental physics principles underpin modern technology and our u nderstanding of the universe.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/cont ributions/877/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/877/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O13 - ITCA Teacher Training Workshop: Expanding Access to Astronom y Education Through International Teacher Training DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T073000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T074500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-840@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Rujida Kuramarohit ()\nAstronomy education has recei ved more interest in recent years\, with growing demand for professional a stronomical resources. However\, accessibility gaps remain a recurring pro blem in many regions around the world. To help bridge this gap and promote equal access to educational opportunities\, the ITCA Teacher Training Wor kshop was developed for international audiences. The primary objective of this workshop is to equip educators as key contributors to passing on know ledge to future generations with practical tools\, accurate content\, and inclusive approaches to improve astronomy instruction in diverse classroom settings.\n\nMany educational systems and cultures\, particularly in deve loping countries\, still rely on traditional\, passive learning methods th at struggle to keep up with the needs of today’s learners. As such\, han ds-on and active learning activities\, connecting astronomy to real-life e xperiences relevant to teachers and students are keys to implementing impa ctful changes to the participants. For instance\, reconceptualizing famili ar phenomena through an activity comparing themselves to the Earth to lear n the moon phases more clearly. Realizing the vast scale of the solar syst em simply by walking through a scale model. The materials used in all acti vities are widely available and easily adaptable with local resources—en suring that teachers could confidently bring these activities into their o wn classrooms. The workshop has been conducted with collaboration with loc al partners across Southeast Asia\, including Laos\, Myanmar\, Malaysia\, Timor-Leste\, Singapore\, Indonesia\, Vietnam and Philippines. It has also expanded to other regions\, such as Nepal and Botswana.\n\nParticipants g ained effective and accurate methods for communicating astronomy in simple and accessible manners\, and they were inspired by unique experiences and fresh ideas that they can apply and implement in their instructional cont exts—passing on knowledge from generation to generation. These outcomes help ensure that astronomy can connect people across borders in a sustaina ble way. Future collaborations with interested partners from around the wo rld are welcomed\, with the aim of continuing to encourage educators globa lly\, aligning with NARIT’s mission “Leave no one behind.”\n\nhttps: //indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/840/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom III URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/840/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O10 - Democratizing Access to the Cosmos: The Role of Local Astron omy Organizations in Promoting Science Literacy DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T083000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T084500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-911@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Mark Anthony Aguilando (Valenzuela City League of As tronomy Enthusiasts (V-CLUE))\nAstronomy and space science remain among th e fields that receive limited exposure in formal education\, creating a ne ed for accessible and community-driven science engagement initiatives. The Valenzuela City League of Astronomy Enthusiasts (V-CLUE) was established to address this gap by promoting astronomy and space science in Valenzuela City and the wider CAMANAVA (Caloocan\, Malabon\, Navotas\, and Valenzuel a) area through public lectures\, astronomy workshops\, telescope viewing sessions\, and school-based outreach programs. Utilizing public spaces suc h as libraries and parks\, V-CLUE has created opportunities for communitie s to engage with astronomy beyond traditional classroom settings.\n\nOne o f the organization’s major milestones was the implementation of Project TALA (Teaching Astronomy to Local Audience)\, the first astronomy summer s chool camp in Valenzuela City and the pioneering youth-focused astronomy p roject in the Philippines. The program catered to high school students and first-year undergraduate students aged 15–18\, providing lessons and ha nds-on activities in astronomy and space science topics rarely encountered in formal education\, including telescope operations and observational as tronomy.\n\nDespite its achievements\, sustaining a volunteer-driven scien ce organization presents challenges\, including maintaining member engagem ent\, ensuring organizational continuity\, developing innovative public pr ograms\, establishing institutional partnerships\, and addressing financia l limitations. To overcome these barriers\, V-CLUE has focused on strength ening volunteer motivation\, continuously developing new activities\, coll aborating with government and private institutions\, and seeking external support for program expansion.\n\nThrough partnerships with local librarie s\, youth development offices\, the Philippine Space Agency\, DepEd Valenz uela\, and other organizations\, V-CLUE demonstrates the importance of col laboration in advancing science literacy. The organization’s experience highlights that grassroots astronomy initiatives can effectively promote p ublic interest in space science while empowering volunteers and youth. Sus taining such efforts requires continuous community involvement\, instituti onal support\, and recognition of science communication as an essential co mponent of national development.\n\nKeywords: astronomy outreach\, science communication\, volunteerism\, youth empowerment\, community engagement\, space science education\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contribut ions/911/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/911/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O07 - Fake News: Turning Social Media Panic into Astronomy Learnin g Moments. DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T074500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T080000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-901@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Piriyaporn Sabhasri ()\nIn the social media age\, sc ary headlines and false astronomy news spread quickly\, creating confusion and public panic. Science communicators need more than just hard facts. W e need fast and practical ways to handle these digital rumors.\n This presentation shares real life lessons from the National Astronomical Rese arch Institute of Thailand (NARIT) on acting as a trusted source for astro nomy news. By drawing on well known examples\, such as solar storm panics and exaggerated asteroid warnings\, we will break down NARIT’s 4 step gu ide to tackling fake news:\n 1.Early Detection: Catching rumors on so cial media before they go viral.\n 2.Clear and Kind Messaging: Explai ning the science simply without sounding patronizing or repeating false cl aims.\n 3.Smart Media Use: Leveraging eye catching infographics\, sho rt videos\, and news networks to spread the truth fast.\n 4.Turning F ear into Learning: Transforming public worry into engaging\, real time sci ence lessons.\n\n Attendees will gain a clear understanding of the s tep by step process for managing misinformation through NARIT’s proven c ase studies. This approach demonstrates how to effectively manage public p anic and turn it into great science learning opportunities.\n\nhttps://ind ico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/901/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/901/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O06 - Expanding Astronomy Outreach: An Adult-Centered Online Progr am for Parents in Indonesia DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T073000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T074500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-910@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Ajeng Tri Handini (langitselatan)\nChildren are natu ral questioners\, and their curiosity about the world around them often le aves adults searching for answers. Science\, particularly astronomy\, is p art of our daily life. Children’s questions are inseparable from a starr y night sky\, a moon that always follows us\, and a big yellow sun in the day. As a child's primary educators and first points of reference\, parent s are expected to answer these questions anytime and anywhere. This realit y calls on parents to prepare themselves to be learning buddies for their children.\n\nIn Indonesia\, online astronomy programs are widely available \, but almost exclusively designed for children. Programs intended for adu lt learners\, particularly parents\, remain rare or virtually nonexistent. While parents often accompany their children in these classes\, the conte nt is tailored for children and does not deepen the parent's own understan ding of astronomy. Recognizing this gap and acknowledging that parents are a child's first learning buddy\, we developed Astronomy for Parents\, an online astronomy program designed specifically for mothers and fathers. Be coming a parent does not mean stopping learning\; if anything\, it demands more of it\, as children grow and their questions only multiply.\n\nThe p rogram held its first session in June 2026 on the topic of Stars and Plane ts\, chosen as the most familiar and observable topic for parents with no prior astronomy background. Each session follows four segments: an opening hook question\, concept exploration\, a simple hands-on activity\, and a Q&A discussion. Eight participants attended the pilot session. All partici pants rated the content as easy to understand\, and seven of the eight ind icated a desire to return for future sessions. These early findings sugges t that an adult-centered approach to astronomy outreach for parents can be effective in terms of engagement and home-based learning. We look forward to sharing this work to expand astronomy outreach in Indonesia through th e langitselatan programme.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contrib utions/910/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/910/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O05 - Communicating Astronomy in the Philippines: Themes\, Trends\ , and Trajectories DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T071500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T073000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-857@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Mark Ivan Roblas (Philippine Council for Industry\, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development)\nCommunicating as tronomy in the Philippines involves addressing challenges such as a limite d curriculum\, insufficient teacher training\, and infrastructure constrai nts while leveraging emerging technologies and fostering multi-sector coll aborations. This paper is a meta-analysis of empirical studies\, program evaluations\, policy reviews and case studies\, surrounding the conduct of communicating astronomy in the Philippines. It covers the period of 2015 to 2025 with the enactment of the Philippine Space Act in the middle of t he time period. This study shows that most of the studies conducted are i n the urban and national-level studies. There is also emerging themes on rural and indigenous contextualualization\, the use of technology in commu nicating astronomy in rural settings\, and integration of indigenous astro nomical knowledge as well as the involvement of communities in astronomy o utreach. Future strategies should consider decentralizing outreach\, getti ng into culturally responsive approaches and the robust evaluation of inno vative platforms like augmented reality applications.\n\nhttps://indico.na rit.or.th/event/238/contributions/857/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/857/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O03 - Reimagining the Planetarium as a Space for Science Engagemen t DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T030000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T031500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-926@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Kai Wei Chan (Science Centre Board)\nPlanetariums of fer a unique opportunity to bring abstract scientific concepts to life — from the impossibly small to the incomprehensibly vast. This presentation explores how we have leveraged the immersive planetarium environment to e ngage two key audiences: schools and the public. For schools\, we design e xperiences that connect curriculum content with 21st Century Competencies\ , fostering curiosity and critical thinking. For the public\, we develop s pecial programmes tied to astronomical events or our signature festivals\, making complex phenomena intuitive\, accessible\, and entertaining. Beyon d traditional programming\, we are reimagining the planetarium experience through new formats — including the pairing of live music with live show s — to create deeper\, more multisensory connections with our audiences. Together\, these efforts reflect our vision of the planetarium as a dynam ic space for science engagement and inspiration.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.o r.th/event/238/contributions/926/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/926/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O02 - Astronomy Meets Pop Culture: On the Movements of Stars and F andoms DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T024500Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T030000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-902@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Hathaichanok Therdthampaisal (NARIT)\nThis presentat ion examines how popular culture\, including animation\, music\, films\, a nd K-pop\, can be used to bring astronomy closer to Thai audiences. It pre sents a selection of successful social media posts that linked popular top ics with astronomical ideas\, helping the content reach people beyond the usual science audience.\n\nThe presentation will also discuss how these co nnections were developed\, what made them work\, and how to keep the conte nt engaging while maintaining scientific accuracy. The case studies offer practical lessons for science communicators who want to introduce astronom y to audiences whose main interests may lie elsewhere.\n\nhttps://indico.n arit.or.th/event/238/contributions/902/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/902/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:W01 - Let's Light Up a Constellation: Illuminating Philippine Ethn oastronomy Through Paper Circuits DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T060000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T070000Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-891@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Lordnico Mendoza ()\nThis interactive workshop intro duces participants to Philippine ethnoastronomy through a creative maker-b ased activity that combines cultural heritage\, astronomy\, and basic elec tronics. Inspired by the "Let's Light Up the Constellations" activity deve loped by the Italian National Institute for Astrophysics (INAF)\, the work shop replaces familiar Western constellations with selected Indigenous Phi lippine constellations\, offering a culturally relevant approach to astron omy education.\n\nThe session will feature selected traditional constellat ions\, such as Balatik and Moroporo\, and discuss their correspondence wit h modern constellations recognized by contemporary astronomy. The hands-on portion of the workshop will guide participants in creating an illuminate d paper-circuit constellation using conductive copper tape\, LEDs\, and a coin-cell battery. Working from prepared templates\, participants will ass emble a simple electrical circuit that lights up the stars of an Indigenou s constellation while learning the basic principles of circuit design and conductivity. Facilitators will provide step-by-step guidance\, making the activity suitable even for participants with no prior experience in elect ronics.\n\nBy the end of the session\, participants will have completed th eir own illuminated constellation model\, gained practical experience in p aper-circuit technology\, and acquired ideas and resources for adapting th is low-cost\, hands-on activity to engage diverse audiences while promotin g appreciation of the Philippines' rich astronomical heritage.\n\nhttps:// indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/891/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort Ballroom II URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/891/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:O01 - Beyond the Classroom: Government-Led Astronomy Education Out reach in the Philippines – Insights from DOST-PAGASA’s Programs DTSTART;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T023000Z DTEND;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261123T024500Z DTSTAMP;VALUE=DATE-TIME:20261112T133305Z UID:indico-contribution-238-879@indico.narit.or.th DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Girlie Cortez ()\nAs the International Astronomical Union (IAU) Office for Astronomy Outreach-National Outreach Coordinator an d the Philippines' primary agency for astronomical services\, the Departme nt of Science and Technology – Philippine Atmospheric\, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA) has been providing free and accessible astronomy education outreach\, continuously adapting its o utreach strategies to engage diverse audiences and promote scientific lite racy beyond traditional classroom settings.\n \nOver the years\, DOST-PAGA SA has expanded its initiatives from the annual National Astronomy Week (N AW\, every 3rd week of February) to a nearly year-round program aligned wi th international astronomical celebrations (February-NAW\; March-Women and Girls in Astronomy\; April-Global Astronomy Month\; May-Dark and Quiet Sk ies\; June-Asteroid Day\; August- Philippine Space Week\; October-100 Hour s of Astronomy & World Space Week). The COVID-19 pandemic prompted a shift to virtual platforms\, enabling broader audience reach through webinars\, virtual planetarium show\, online telescope viewing sessions\, and intera ctive activities. Post-pandemic\, the agency has fully transitioned back t o in-person outreach\, reinstating physical events such as planetarium lec tures\, public stargazing and telescope viewing\, seminars for teachers an d workshops for junior high schools and interested participants to enhance direct community engagement. We create a cohesive and impactful outreach schedule by strategically aligning our year-round activities with internat ional astronomy celebrations. Despite the challenges of reaching diverse c ommunities nationwide\, DOST-PAGASA's successes demonstrate the vital role of government-led\, strategic\, and adaptive outreach in democratizing as tronomy education and fostering a scientifically literate society\, unders coring the necessity of sustained government support for STEM education an d national development.\n\nhttps://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributi ons/879/ LOCATION:Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort\, Mactan\, Cebu URL:https://indico.narit.or.th/event/238/contributions/879/ END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR