Science Belongs to Everyone: My New Journey as a SciStarter Ambassador

 I have always believed that science shouldn't be trapped behind laboratory walls or restricted to those wearing white coats. Real science begins with curiosity—with looking at the world around us, asking questions, and seeking answers together. That is why sharing this news today feels so deeply rewarding: I have officially joined the SciStarter Ambassador Program.

Receiving that confirmation email was a moment of genuine excitement and gratitude. Stepping into this role isn't just about adding a title; it is an opportunity to build meaningful bridges between scientific research and our local communities.

Through citizen science, anyone—regardless of age, background, or prior experience—can collect data, observe nature, study the night sky, or contribute to solving real environmental challenges. SciStarter acts as that vital bridge, connecting everyday curious minds with real-world research projects that need our hands and eyes.

As a SciStarter Ambassador, my goal is to make science accessible, engaging, and welcoming to all. I want to bring tools, inspiration, and opportunities directly to our community, showing that every single observation counts toward global discovery.

I am deeply grateful to the SciStarter team for this opportunity and trust. This next chapter isn't about what I can accomplish alone, but about what we can discover together. If you've ever been curious about the world or wanted to make a tangible difference through discovery, there has never been a better time to start.

Let's do science together!

Exploring the Cosmos: STEAM,

 Honored to share some wonderful news: our podcast episode with Howard Fox — "Exploring the Cosmos: STEAM, Astronomy and Community Outreach Adventures" — received an Honorable Mention at the Outdoor Writers Association of America's 2026 Excellence in Craft Competition in Madison, WI.

Huge thanks to Howard Fox , the Las Vegas Astronomical Society, and the OWAA. This one is for everyone who has ever looked up and wondered. Onward, and keep looking up! 

Earning the “2.50 Million Acts of Science” Badge

This week, I received something that means far more than a digital icon on a profile: the “2.50 Million Acts of Science” badge from SciStarter, awarded during Citizen Science Month 2026.

At first glance, it’s a simple verification—Issued April 2, 2026; Verified by SciStarter; Linked to my account. But behind that small badge is a global movement powered by curiosity, generosity, and the belief that science belongs to everyone.

 A Celebration of People-Powered Science

The badge recognizes volunteers around the world who contributed to the ambitious goal of reaching 2.50 million Acts of Science in April 2026. These Acts come from people of all backgrounds—students, families, retirees, educators, hobbyists—each taking a moment to observe, measure, record, or explore something meaningful.

Whether through SciStarter Affiliate projects or self‑reported contributions, every Act becomes a data point that helps researchers understand our planet, our environment, and even our place in the universe.

 Why I Participated

As someone who spends much of my time helping communities connect with the night sky and with the scientific process, participating in Citizen Science Month feels like a natural extension of that mission. Logging an Act of Science isn’t just about checking a box—it’s about joining a global chorus of people who believe that knowledge grows stronger when more voices contribute.

What It Takes to Earn the Badge

To receive the “2.50 Million Acts of Science” badge, participants must:

- Create or log in to a SciStarter account

- Join at least one SciStarter Affiliate project

- Link their account so contributions are properly credited

- Complete at least one Act of Science between April 1–30, 2026

- Acts through Affiliate projects are tracked automatically

- Acts from events or non‑Affiliate projects can be self‑reported

It’s simple, accessible, and designed to welcome anyone into the world of citizen science.

A Small Badge with a Big Message

What I love most about this recognition is that it isn’t about expertise—it’s about participation. It honors the idea that science advances not only through laboratories and observatories, but also through everyday people who choose to look closely at the world and share what they see.

I’m proud to be one of them.

And if you’ve ever wondered whether your curiosity can make a difference, Citizen Science Month is the perfect invitation. One observation, one measurement, one moment of attention—that’s all it takes to contribute to something much bigger than yourself.

Here’s to the next million Acts of Science.

SciStarter Champion: Why Citizen Science Matters More Than Ever

This week, I reached a milestone that feels deeply connected to my mission as an educator and community outreach advocate: I completed the SciStarter Champion training program.

At first glance, it might look like just another certificate. But for me, it represents something much larger—a commitment to helping people discover that science is not a distant world reserved for experts. It’s a shared space where curiosity, collaboration, and community come together.

What It Means to Be a SciStarter Champion

SciStarter is a platform that connects people with citizen science projects across countless fields: astronomy, ecology, public health, environmental monitoring, and more. Becoming a SciStarter Champion means being trained to introduce these opportunities to others—students, families, neighbors, and anyone who wants to contribute to real scientific research.

In a time when many feel disconnected from science, citizen science offers a bridge. It says: You belong here. Your observations matter. Your participation can make a difference.

That message resonates deeply with me.

Why Citizen Science Aligns With My Work

As someone who works at the intersection of STEAM education, outreach, and community building, I’ve always believed that science becomes meaningful when it becomes personal. When people see themselves as contributors—not just spectators—something powerful happens. They gain agency. They gain confidence. They gain a sense of connection to the world around them.

Citizen science embodies that philosophy.

Whether it’s measuring light pollution, identifying wildlife, or helping map the night sky, these projects invite people to step into the role of explorer and collaborator. And that’s exactly the kind of engagement I strive to cultivate in every classroom, event, and partnership.

A Step Toward More Inclusive Science

Earning this certification is not an endpoint; it’s a beginning. It’s a reminder that science grows stronger when more voices join the conversation. It’s an invitation to continue building bridges—between organizations, between communities, and between people and the cosmos.

I’m grateful to SciStarter, to Darlene Cavalier, and to everyone who works tirelessly to make science accessible and participatory. And I’m excited to bring these tools and insights back to the communities I serve in Nevada and beyond.

Looking Ahead

In the coming months, I plan to integrate more citizen science opportunities into my outreach programs, bilingual presentations, and collaborations with schools and local organizations. My hope is simple: to help more people discover the joy of contributing to something bigger than themselves.

Science is not just something we learn. It’s something we do together.

And I’m honored to continue that journey as a SciStarter Champion. 

Behind the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse

 Honoured to receive this Certificate of Appreciation from NASA/JPL for contributing to the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse efforts.

It’s been inspiring to support a moment that connected science, sky, and curiosity across the globe.

Honored and Grateful: A Journey Through the Cosmos

Today marks an extraordinary milestone in my journey as a STEAM educator and an advocate for scientific literacy. I am deeply honoured to be recognized by the Clark County Board of Commissioners for my dedication to sharing the wonders of the universe with our community.

My journey began in the vibrant city of Madrid, Spain, where my fascination with the cosmos was sparked at a young age. Inspired by my mother's love for the stars and my sisters' enthusiastic encouragement of stargazing, I developed a deep passion for astronomy and the sciences. This passion has been the driving force behind my life's work.

When I moved to Las Vegas, I found a community that shared my curiosity and excitement for space exploration. Over the past eleven years, I have had the privilege of working with numerous organizations to promote scientific literacy, including the Scouts of America, the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District, Civil Air Patrol, Native Tribal Organizations, UNLV, and many more. My contributions to citizen science projects for NASA, JPL, The Planetary Society, and others have been some of the most rewarding experiences of my career.

In 2013, I joined the Las Vegas Astronomical Society, and since 2018, I have served as the Vice President of the Society’s Education Outreach Program. This role has allowed me to conduct over 100 STEAM events annually, sharing my passion and knowledge with thousands of community members. In 2022, I was selected for NASA’s Solar System Ambassador’s Program, further fueling my commitment to space exploration and public education.

Today's recognition is a testament to the support and encouragement I have received from so many incredible individuals and organizations. I am especially grateful to Commissioner Gibson and Commission District Liaison Blanca Vazquez for their unwavering support and belief in my mission. Their enthusiasm and dedication have been instrumental in my journey.

I am humbled by this honour and remain committed to inspiring curiosity and promoting scientific literacy. The universe is vast and full of wonders, and together, we can explore it, learn from it, and be inspired by it.

Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this journey. Your support means the world to me. Let's continue to look up and explore the cosmos together!

With gratitude and humility,

Francisco Silva

Recognition for: NSN

This recognition highlights the importance of sharing both the night sky and the inspiration behind NASA missions: “For sharing the wonders of the night sky and the inspiration of NASA missions with students, families, and your community.”

This approach reinforces my work as a STEAM educator, where every activity is an opportunity to connect science, exploration, and a sense of wonder.

Proclamation from Chairman James B. Gibson

 I am incredibly honoured to let you all know that the Las Vegas Astronomical Association (LVAS) has been honoured with a proclamation from Chairman James B. Gibson of the Board of Commissioners of Clark County, Nevada. For our commitment to educating and enriching the community. Since 1980, LVAS has been dedicated to sharing our passion for astronomy and organizing engaging events like "Astronomy in the Park" at Wetlands Park. It's a privilege to see our efforts acknowledged, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a greater understanding and appreciation of the wonders of the night sky. 

I want to express my gratitude to every one of you for your contributions to the Las Vegas Astronomical Association. This recognition reflects our shared commitment to promoting a greater understanding and appreciation of the wonders of the night sky.

Thank again to the Chairman and the Board of Commissioners for this honor!

Certificate of Appreciation

Excited to be in this classroom for Career Day! It's always inspiring to see the next generation of leaders and thinkers. It was great to share some of the amazing opportunities that are in the space career and help encourage these young minds to chase their dreams.

 

Recognition for:AWB

 Grateful to be part of Global Astronomy Month and to contribute to the mission of One People, One Sky. Science outreach continues to be a bridge that unites us.

Becoming a NASA Solar System Ambassador: A New Chapter in My Journey

Every once in a while, life offers a moment that feels both humbling and electrifying—one of those rare milestones that remind you why you chose a path of curiosity, service, and wonder. For me, that moment arrived with a letter from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), officially welcoming me as a Solar System Ambassador for 2022.

The Solar System Ambassadors Program is a volunteer public engagement initiative managed by JPL in Pasadena, California. Its mission is simple yet powerful: connect communities with the excitement of space exploration, scientific discovery, and humanity’s ongoing journey into the cosmos. To be selected as part of this network of educators, communicators, and space enthusiasts is an honor I carry with deep gratitude.   

What This Role Means

As an Ambassador, I’ll be working with local communities—schools, libraries, organizations, and public events—to share NASA’s latest missions, discoveries, and educational resources. It’s a chance to bridge the gap between cutting‑edge science and everyday curiosity, helping people of all ages feel connected to the universe above us.

NASA provides training, resources, and support to ensure that Ambassadors can represent the program with accuracy and enthusiasm. After completing the required orientation and online modules, I’ll be able to host events, give talks, collaborate with educators, and contribute to outreach efforts throughout the year.

A Commitment to Service and Learning

Along with the acceptance letter came the official volunteer agreement and media release forms—formal steps that mark the beginning of this journey. They outline the responsibilities of the role, the protections offered to volunteers, and the expectations for participating in NASA‑sponsored outreach activities.

Signing them felt symbolic: a promise to serve my community, to keep learning, and to share the wonder of exploration with others.

Looking Ahead

I’m excited for the opportunities this role will bring—new collaborations, new audiences, and new ways to inspire curiosity. Space exploration has always been a story of collective effort, and being part of that story, even in a small way, is something I deeply cherish.

As I begin this new chapter, I look forward to bringing more space‑themed content, events, and reflections to this blog. Thank you for being part of the journey.

The cosmos is vast, and our curiosity is the bridge that connects us to it.

Outstanding Community Partner Award by Girl Scouts of Southern Nevada.

Thank you so much for honoring me with the Outstanding Community Partner Award. It is a great privilege to receive this recognition from the Girl Scouts of Southern Nevada.

I want to convey my sincere gratitude to everyone who has helped me with all the STEAM events.

Let's keep inspiring the future Girls Scuts.

Thank you so much for honoring me with the Outstanding Community Partner Award. It is a great privilege to receive this recognition from the Girl Scouts of Southern Nevada.

I want to convey my sincere gratitude to everyone who has helped me with all the STEAM events.

Let's keep inspiring the future Girls Scuts.

This letter serves as an expression of gratitude. Civil Air Patrol

The presentation of a challenge coin symbolizes the union of service, excellence, and dedication. Being part of this military and educational tradition is an honor that underscores the importance of collaboration between scientific communities and youth organizations. Sharing the universe with those just beginning their journey is an essential part of my mission as an educator.

Certificate of Recognition

Certificate of Recognition

Asgardia

 Another step on my journey between Earth and the stars. Honored to receive this recognition from Asgardia.

Certificate of Recognition