Earth and Space

Listening to the stars

Stories from Physics for 11-14 14-16 IOP RESOURCES

A blind astronomer, Dr Wanda Diaz Merced, has developed an approach to turning astronomical data into auditory signals, known as sonificiation. It’s well worth listening to her TED talk is at: ted.com/talks/wanda_diaz_merced_how_a_blind_ astronomer_found_a_way_to_hear_the_stars.

Harvard’s Professor Alicia Soderberg has applied sonification to supernovae data, teaming up with musicians and visually impaired scientists, leading to new insights into the events.

 

References

IOP AWARDS 2025

Teachers of Physics Awards

The Teachers of Physics Award celebrates the success of secondary school physics teachers who have raised the profile of physics and science in schools. Nominations for 2025 are now open.

Start your nomination now