“A research laboratory for education and outreach activities”

December 23, 2011

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A sponsor with a soft spot for astronomy: Klaus Tschira

© Klaus Tschira Stiftung gGmbH/T. Wegner

Mr Tschira, what made you choose to sponsor astronomy?

My passion for astronomy was sparked early on and my fellow pupils even referred to me as the “planetary nerd”. After graduating in physics, however, I spent many years working in the software industry. It was not until the Klaus Tschira Foundation was created that I could revisit my sorely missed natural sciences, mathematics and computer science. One of the aims of the foundation is to promote public appreciation for these disciplines, and the Haus der Astronomie can make a huge contribution in this sense.

In German schools, astronomy is rather neglected and is far from becoming a compulsory subject. Do you believe that the Haus der Astronomie can help raise its status within a foreseeable future?

In East Germany, astronomy was a subject in its own right. But unfortunately, that is in the past. Nevertheless, experience has shown that both teachers and pupils are very interested in the cosmos. The Haus der Astronomie will be offering further training to teachers and developing material for use in schools. This way, we try to assist in bringing astronomy topics into the classroom.

How do you envisage work in the Haus der Astronomie?

The house will serve as a research laboratory for astronomy education and outreach activities. It will develop a whole host of formats and materials which can be used in kindergartens, schools and other educational establishments. The suitability of the material will be tested in the Haus der Astronomie together with kindergarten children, pupils, teachers and the general public.