Elon University
Aubrey Spicola is a passionate astrophysics student at Elon University in North Carolina, with a drive to blend mixed-reality (MR) technologies with astronomy education for the betterment of astronomy teachings. Her current research focuses on developing a virtual planetarium experience using Mixed Reality (MR), aimed at providing smaller institutions with the ability to deliver immersive astronomical education, even without physical planetarium facilities.
Aubrey’s research is inspired by her extensive experience as a program presenter at a planetarium, where she has honed her skills in science communication and audience engagement. She aims to create an interactive and accessible MR planetarium platform that will change how astronomy is taught and experienced in the classroom.
In addition to her MR research, Aubrey recently completed the Astrophysics REU program at Cornell University where she studied pulsar timing and scattering analysis to probe the interstellar medium under mentors. She presented her research in poster and slide format at the end of the summer to fellow undergraduates and professors at Cornell.
A dedicated educator, Aubrey also serves as an astronomy TA and tutor, helping to cultivate a love for science in students of all backgrounds. She is actively preparing a planetarium show for Fall 2024 to be screened in the Schiele Museum's Lynn Planetarium, where she has worked as a Planetarium Specialist for two years.
Aubrey is on the path to graduate studies, where she plans to further explore the intersection of astrophysics and immersive technology to transform how we engage with the cosmos. She hopes to earn her Ph.D and educate future generations of astronomers.
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13D-3 - The Planetarium at 150: Transforming Astronomy Through Mixed Reality
Saturday, August 24, 2024
1:10 PM – 2:00 PM US PDT
