Dr. Raven Baxter’s The Science Haven and Curiosity Stream Announce Promotional Partnership for Stellar Dreams Telescope Initiative
Stellar Dreams: 100 Telescopes, 100 Families, 100 Dreams
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Alexandria, VA – August 31, 2023 – The Science Haven, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to democratizing science, is thrilled to announce a collaboration with Curiosity Stream, the premium documentary film and non-fiction series streaming service. This marks a significant milestone as The Science Haven’s first major partnership, and comes as Curiosity Stream kicks off Space Week – a spectacular 10-day event dedicated to films, series, and specials that takes viewers on an unforgettable exploration of the Universe.
Fostering the Future of Astronomy with Stellar Dreams
The Science Haven is working to inspire the next generation of astronomers and astrophysicists with the Stellar Dreams™ initiative. It aims to reinforce young ambitions by gifting 100 beginner-friendly telescopes to 100 deserving students across the United States, from underserved communities. With each telescope representing a significant expense for these families, this initiative is seen as an invaluable investment in the future of science and exploration. The collaboration with Curiosity Stream aims to invigorate and broaden the reach of the Stellar Dreams initiative while giving these families access to a world of science at their fingertips. “At Curiosity Stream, we understand the power of curiosity and its role in shaping future scientists,” said Kevin Edds, Vice President of Creative Services at Curiosity Stream. “By supporting The Stellar Dreams initiative, we’re excited to be part of an initiative that not only gifts telescopes but also opens up a universe of possibilities for these young minds.”
Addressing the Underrepresentation of Black Scientists
Over the last 10 years there has been a slowly decreasing number of Black/African-American students pursuing degrees in physics, space science, astronomy, and astrophysics. Additionally, there are significantly low numbers of Black students who continue to become professional scientists in these same career paths. Consequently, approximately 1% of the field of astronomy & astrophysics is represented by Black scientists. An even smaller number come from disadvantaged and/or single-parent households. The Science Haven’s Director of Programs and award-winning theoretical astrophysicist, and 3-time HBCU graduate Dr. Ronald Gamble, is a representation of how to beat these startling statistics. "The combination of The Science Haven’s Stellar Dreams initiative to overcome the disparity of families having access to science and Curiosity Stream’s vast library of content highlighted during Space Week propel the dreams deferred by many young minds looking up at the stars each night.” says Dr. Ronald Gamble.
Curiosity Stream's Support for the Stellar Dreams Initiative
This exciting partnership will bring added support to the Stellar Dreams initiative. Each of the recipients of a Stellar Dreams telescope will also get an annual subscription to Curiosity Stream including Curiosity’s deep library of space content. Additionally, Curiosity Stream will contribute 20% of new annual subscriptions generated through The Science Haven / Curiosity Stream promotional collaboration across social media.
Promoting Access to Educational Resources
Access to educational materials and resources in science-related fields is becoming increasingly difficult for many African American students. "The beauty of this initiative lies in the ripple effect it can create. An interest in the cosmos can lead not only to a lifetime of scientific inquiry, but also spark interest in other fields of science," says Dr. Raven Baxter, Executive Director of The Science Haven. Astronomy is often regarded as a gateway to physics, mathematics, chemistry, biology and even earth sciences. Dr. Baxter, renowned for her creative and impactful digital content as “Dr. Raven the Science Maven”, is set to showcase her talents and innovation to this collaboration. Through this partnership, The Science Haven aims to uplift Curiosity Stream's social media presence during their Space Week programming by leveraging their wide-reaching social networks.
About The Science Haven
The Science Haven is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization passionately committed to amplifying scientific literacy and fostering public engagement with science. Their mission is to bring the wonders of science closer to all, making it accessible, enjoyable, and applicable to every individual.
About Curiosity Stream
Curiosity Stream is part of Curiosity Inc., the global media company home to award-winning original and curated factual films, shows, and series exploring science, nature, history, technology, society, and lifestyle. Curiosity Stream’s Space Week event launches August 31 with the world premiere of the Curiosity original special Search for Earth’s Lost Moon – examining an extraordinary discovery close to home that scientists are finding difficult to observe… and even harder to explain.
Press Contact: Raven Baxter, Ph.D. Executive Director, The Science Haven info@thesciencehaven.org 269 S Beverly Drive, #338 Beverly Hills, CA 90212 www.thesciencehaven.org
