Opinion: Cincinnati Observatory sets sights on inclusion, engagement

When we understand our past, we can redefine and reimagine the future.

Throughout the 177-year history of the Cincinnati Observatory, we’ve not only used our telescopes to uncover new information and revelations about our universe – importantly, but we have gathered as curious citizen scientists to discover much about our history and our humanity.

One way we’re committed to our honoring our past and investing in our future is by strengthening our commitment to equality and inclusion. Diversity in science and discovery is a strength. And by focusing on ensuring our programs are accessible, we can inspire more people – especially young people – to pursue scientific educational opportunities and careers in related fields.

Today, more women serve on the Cincinnati Observatory Board of Trustees than at any other point in our history. As the first woman to chair the board, I see this as an opportunity to continue to make sure our leaders reflect the diversity of the community we support. I’m excited that we can continue to share the historical significance of the Observatory, and also utilize our facility to make new discoveries and inspire curiosity.

As we begin to emerge from the pandemic, we’re continuing to innovate our outreach efforts to continue to share the wonders of the universe with more people in Greater Cincinnati. We’ve prioritized making sure our facilities and opportunities are accessible to more people, including expanding the type of programs we offer online for students, families and people of all ages.

Recently, we announced we’re resuming some of our in-person activities, including the popular Late-Night Date Night at the Observatory. We’re maintaining online offerings, like Cosmic Kids. And we’ve just made viewing the stars easier at home by donating 10 telescopes available for checkout at five local library branches.

We’re excited to sustain these community programs. That’s why we’ve established the Cincinnati Observatory Foundation, a new entity that will help us financially plan and provide for the future of the Observatory facilities and programming. Our sponsors include large organizations but importantly also individuals who want to make sure this incredible resource is open and available to more people for generations to come.

We’ve teamed up with Experience Cincinnati to inspire tourism to the Observatory and other notable and unique sites in our region. As more visitors return to the Observatory, we want them to appreciate our history and where we’ve been. We also want them to see how space and science play a critical role in their own lives, and leave inspired to return to deepen their understanding of our universe.

This is a pivotal and exciting time in the history of the Observatory, and our goal is to include more people in our future. Since 1842, we’ve been home to the "people’s telescope." As we prepare for the future, we’re excited for more people to visit us to look up and view the skies – and in turn, look inward and learn something new about themselves.

Anna Coutts is chair of the Cincinnati Observatory Board of Trustees.