The Arecibo Observatory: An Engine for Science and Scientists in Puerto Rico and Beyond

The Arecibo Science Advocacy Partnership (ASAP) hosted a splinter meeting on the third day of the 240th American Astronomical Society conference titled: The Arecibo Observatory: An Engine for Science and Scientists in Puerto Rico and Beyond.

The meeting was focused on Education and Public Outreach programs at the Arecibo Observatory and their positive world-wide impact.

The Director of AO, Francisco Córdova, started the meeting with a “beautiful and hopeful” overview talk, according to Dr. Nicole Lloyd-Ronning, one of the organizers of the splinter meeting and chair of the ASAP Advocacy and Outreach Committee.

The first panel discussion, moderated by Dr. Lloyd-Ronning, featured former STAR Academy student Viviana Vélez and former AO REU student Thankful Cromartie who shared the impact that their experience at AO has had on their careers and their lives in general.

The second panel discussion was moderated by Dr. Marcel Agüeros and featured the Director of AO’s Science & Visitor Center Dr. Carlos Padín and preeminent postdoctoral researcher Dr. Allison Smith, who provided in-depth descriptions of the ongoing Education and Public Outreach programs at the observatory and that they hope to continue running well into the future.

The splinter meeting ended with ASAP Board President Héctor Arce providing the group with motivational words to encourage everyone to continue advocating for the Arecibo Observatory, which has had an incredible educational impact on so many in Puerto Rico and around the world.