Exploring the Lakota Universe: Highlights from Our First Community Star Party
🌌 A Night Under the Stars
On September 12, 2025, Todd County Middle School became a hub of curiosity as the Sicangu-NASA Star Knowledge Project hosted its first Community Star Party.
Over 100 participants of teachers, students, families, and community members gathered to explore the stars through Lakota tradition and modern science.
“It was amazing to see everyone learning together, sharing knowledge, and connecting with the stars in a hands-on way.”
— Lydia Yellow Hawk, Education Outreach Coordinator
The event was made possible through collaboration with NASA, South Dakota State University, RST Tribal Education, and Sicangu Co. Student helpers guided participants throughout the evening.
🎬 Learning Through Film and Discussion
The Star Party began with a screening of Lakota Star Knowledge: Explorations of the Lakota Universe, by Dr. Craig Howe.
After the film, Dr. Howe led a discussion and Q&A, connecting centuries-old Lakota star knowledge to modern astronomy.
Participants also explored Stellarium, a free planetarium app, discovering constellations from multiple cultural perspectives.
Event Highlights:
Over 100 participants from Rosebud and surrounding communities
Hands-on activities: star wheels, Big Dipper star clock dials, telescope building
Film discussion with Dr. Craig Howe linking Lakota and Western astronomy
🔭 Hands-On Activities That Spark Wonder
Attendees built star wheels featuring Western and Lakota constellations and Big Dipper star clock dials to track time and season.
The night culminated with telescope-building, designed by Larry Browning, allowing participants to take home hands-on tools for stargazing.
“It was gratifying to see so much interest in astronomy and Lakota star lore. We hope everyone left with something tangible to take home, applying what they learned under the night sky.”
— Larry Browning, SDSU Physics Professor
📅 Looking Ahead: More Opportunities to Explore
The Star Party was just the beginning.
Upcoming events include:
December 2025: Lakota Star Knowledge workshop at Boys & Girls Club of Rosebud
January 2026: Winter solstice-themed Star Party
“As the project grows, we invite anyone who wants to learn or contribute to our work to join our team. We’re excited to share these resources and continue bringing the stars—and our cultural knowledge—to communities across Rosebud.”
— Lydia Yellow Hawk
🌠 Bridging Cultures Through the Cosmos
By blending traditional Lakota teachings with modern astronomy, the Sicangu-NASA Star Knowledge Project inspires curiosity and honors a rich cultural legacy.
These gatherings demonstrate that science and culture can coexist, creating meaningful learning experiences for the whole community.
Fun Star Facts:
The Big Dipper can help tell time and season based on its position in the sky
Lakota constellations have been observed and passed down for generations
Want to join the journey or learn more?
Visit Sicangu Co’s social media pages for resources, upcoming events, and ways to participate.
