Author: Rebecca Ljungren

is a professional Astronomy Educator at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum and the Phoebe Waterman Haas Public Observatory. She seeks to inspire life-long learners through astronomy by having visitors observe astronomical phenomena, analyze data, and explore the lives of professional and amateur astronomers. At the Museum, Rebecca’s activities include developing and conducting innovative and hands-on astronomy programs for the public and groups, training educators, interns, and volunteers, bringing telescopes to public venues around DC like Astronomy on Tap, and developing exhibitions. She has spoken at the Winter Star Party and the Almost Heaven Star Party. Recently, Rebecca loved helping hundreds of thousands of people view the solar eclipse on August 21, 2017, especially students from DC-area schools. Rebecca is a “late-onset astronomer.” She fell in love with astronomy and astrophysics working part-time at the National Air and Space Museum while earning her bachelor’s degree in Art History from American University. Rebecca loved facilitating informal interactions so much that she went on to earn a master’s degree in Museum Education from The George Washington University, and then to a full-time position as an Astronomy Educator. Her broader academic interests include the intersections between science, gender, art, and society. Through her work, she advocates for a more inclusive and accessible experience within museums and in daily life.