Astronomers are in a unique position to help people understand the danger of climate change and what we can do about it. This book is intended to help astronomers to be better educators and communicators about the causes and consequences of climate change, as well as better advocates for solutions. It discusses the science of climate change as relevant to astronomy, including topics such as the Earth's past to its potential future. It also explores how we can communicate about a divisive and emotionally charged topic in ways that can overcome common misconceptions and disinformation so as to inspire and motivate. The book also discusses how climate change is impacting astronomy as a profession, as well as ways that astronomy can reduce its carbon emissions.
Key Features
Covers science topics astronomers need to know to better understand climate change Includes methods for teaching climate change in college-level astronomy courses Provides strategies for effectively communicating climate change in informal education settings Includes a discussion of how astronomers can be advocates for solutions without compromising their roles as scientists
Edited by:
Travis A. Rector (University of Alaska Anchorage)
Imprint: Institute of Physics Publishing
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions:
Height: 254mm,
Width: 178mm,
ISBN: 9780750337250
ISBN 10: 0750337257
Series: AAS-IOP Astronomy
Pages: 526
Publication Date: 30 April 2024
Audience:
Professional and scholarly
,
Undergraduate
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Active
Part I Introduction 1 Why Astronomers? Part II Past and future 2 Geologic Climate History of the Earth 3 Predictions of Our Future Global Climate: Models, Scenarios, and Projections Part III Consequences and Solutions 4 Consequences of Climate Change 5 Agriculture and Climate Change 6 How To Think about Solutions 7 Energy Solutions to Climate Change Part IV Formal and Informal Education 8 Climate Change in Astro 101 9 Teaching with Inspiration, Not (Only) Fear 10 Global Warming: A Case Study in Science 11 Addressing Climate Change with Informal Science Education Part V Communication 12 Communication and Climate Change 13 Media and Misinformation Part VI Engagement and Advocacy 14 Community Engagement 15 The Power of Activism 16 Climate Justice Part VII Climate Change and Astronomy 17 Impact of Climate Change on Astronomical Observations 18 The Carbon Footprint of Astronomy Research 19 The Future of Meetings Part VIII Resources Appendix A: Resources
Travis A. Rector is an astrophysicist at the University of Alaska Anchorage. In recent years, his focus has been on advocating for solutions to climate change. Living in Alaska, he has witnessed dramatic changes in his home state. He is also one of the founders of Astronomers for Planet Earth, an international grass-roots movement of astronomy students, educators, amateurs and scientists, working to address the climate crisis from an astronomical perspective. He is currently serving as the chair of a task force for the American Astronomical Society, whose goal is to identify ways astronomy as a profession can reduce its carbon footprint on a scale commensurate with the terms of the Paris Agreement.
