Canadian Astronomical Society (CASCA)
Société canadienne d'astronomie (CASCA)
Carol A. CHRISTIAN
Space Telescope Science Institute
Public Impact of Scientific Images: Examples from Space Science
Public interest in scientific findings can be greatly enhanced through the use of imagery augmented with suitable background materials. As an example, Space Scientists (astronomers, solar system experts, etc.) have learned that persistent dissemination of new results, showcased through imagery, can have a positive effect on the support of their discipline by federal agencies. Today, the physical sciences must compete with healthcare, security, and social science issues to obtain suitable funding. The use of imagery is one powerful tool that can be used to raise public awareness, improve public perception of science and thereby garner fiscal stability for basic research.