Chambers, L., Connolly, R., Kirk, M. S., Fischer, H., Aranda, A., Bowden, M. L., Cass, M., Cominsky, L. R., Czajkowski, K. P., Edson, L. B., Gardner-Vandy, K., Higdon, R., Holland, A., Keller, J. M., Kohl, H., Leavell, C., MacDonald, E., McCarthy, C., Mead, C., … White, V. (2025). Uniting Under the Eclipse: A Mega-Collaboration to Activate Science Learning Across the Penumbra and Beyond. Bulletin

Abstract

This paper reports the extensive collaboration and innovative outreach efforts of NASA's Science Activation (SciAct) program surrounding the 2023-24 solar eclipses. SciAct, which leverages a collective impact model, brought together diverse teams to create a synergistic approach to public science education and engagement for the eclipses. Building on lessons from the 2017 eclipse, teams co-developed a range of multi-sensory and inclusive resources designed to reach diverse audiences across the continent. Materials included tactile and bilingual resources, citizen science tools, and hands-on activities distributed through various networks across the country. In addition to real-time eclipse engagement, SciAct emphasized data collection, with participatory science initiatives encouraging the public to contribute valuable environmental and audio data, and more importantly, to participate in analyzing and contributing to scientific results. The paper discusses how these collaborative efforts not only enhanced public understanding of solar science but also established long-term opportunities for sustaining engagement in science education. Through continuous collaboration, resource sharing, and adaptability, SciAct has demonstrated how large-scale efforts to activate science learning can maximize impact, reach diverse audiences, and create lasting educational experiences well beyond the eclipse events.