STEM Education & Engagement
Empowering the next generation through real space science, hands-on learning, and citizen science participation.
Real Science, Real Impact
LUMINA is committed to making science accessible, engaging, and meaningful. Our STEM program connects students, educators, and communities with real scientific data, hands-on experiences, and the opportunity to contribute to a national environmental monitoring mission.
Building a Nationwide Network
We're recruiting schools across the UK to participate in the ground station segment of the LUMINA mission. Schools will deploy and maintain Sky Quality Meter (SQM) sensors, connecting into our national monitoring network and contributing real data to scientific research. Building sensors is optional - we can provide pre-built units for schools that prefer them.
Build & Deploy
Students can learn by building their own SQM sensor units (optional), understanding the technology behind night sky monitoring, and deploying them at their school sites. Pre-built units are also available.
Connect to Network
Schools connect their sensors to the LUMINA data network, becoming part of a nationwide monitoring system that validates satellite measurements.
Analyze Data
Students access real-time data from their sensors and the wider network, learning data analysis, visualization, and scientific interpretation.
Multiple Pathways to Participation
Schools and other community science groups can engage with LUMINA at different levels, from full ground station participation to data analysis and other educational activities.
Full Ground Station Participation
Schools and community science groups deploy and maintain SQM sensors, connecting to the national network. Building sensors is optional - pre-built units are available. This includes:
- • Optional hands-on sensor construction workshops
- • Site selection and sensor deployment
- • Ongoing operation and maintenance
- • Data transmission to LUMINA network
- • Access to real-time monitoring dashboards
Ideal for: Schools and community science groups with strong STEM programs, science clubs, or environmental focus. Requires commitment to long-term operation.
Data Analysis & Research
Schools and community science groups access LUMINA data for educational projects and research:
- • Access to open LUMINA datasets
- • Data visualization tools and tutorials
- • Research project support and guidance
- • Connection to academic research partners
- • Opportunities for student publications
Ideal for: Schools and community science groups focusing on data science, geography, environmental studies, or research skills development.
Comprehensive Support Package
We provide extensive support to ensure schools can successfully participate in the LUMINA mission, from technical assistance to educational resources.
Educational Resources
Curriculum-aligned materials, lesson plans, and activities covering space science, environmental monitoring, and data analysis.
Technical Support
Expert guidance on sensor construction, deployment, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Online support and training workshops.
Community Network
Connect with other participating schools, share experiences, collaborate on projects, and access a network of educators and scientists.
Professional Development
Training sessions for teachers, access to scientific expertise, and opportunities to engage with cutting-edge space science research.
Benefits for Students & Schools
Participation in LUMINA provides unique opportunities for students to engage with real science, develop practical skills, and contribute to national research.
For Students
- ✓Hands-on experience with real scientific equipment and data
- ✓Development of STEM skills: electronics, programming, data analysis
- ✓Connection to authentic space science and environmental research
- ✓Opportunities for student-led research projects and publications
- ✓Enhanced understanding of light pollution and environmental issues
For Schools
- ✓Enhanced STEM curriculum with real-world applications
- ✓Access to cutting-edge space science and environmental data
- ✓Professional development opportunities for teaching staff
- ✓Recognition as a participating school in a national mission
- ✓Connection to wider scientific and educational communities
Get Your School Involved
We're currently recruiting 25 schools and other STEM community groups for the ground station phase. We're in the earliest phases of this project at the moment, so this is an exciting opportunity to join us as we get going. If your school or community science group is interested in participating, we'd love to hear from you.