Source: NASA
Introduction
On World Ocean Day, held on June 6, 2026, the University of Georgia Aquarium on Skidaway Island hosted a significant educational event focused on climate science. More than 1,000 museum visitors participated in the initiative, which utilized interactive technology and hands-on activities to explore the complexities of sea level rise.
The event, titled 1,000 Museum Visitors Dive Into NASA Sea Level Science on World Ocean Day, was made possible through a collaboration with NASA’s Science Activation program. By bringing complex environmental data to a public audience, the organizers aimed to foster a deeper understanding of how rising oceans impact coastal regions.
What Happened
The gathering served as a platform for visitors of all ages to engage with data-driven exhibits. A major highlight was the debut of an augmented reality (AR) sandbox, which allowed guests to physically manipulate sand to create landscapes while watching real-time, NASA-informed projections of sea level changes overlay their work. This interactive tool enabled participants to test various resilience strategies, such as the placement of dunes or the relocation of infrastructure, providing a tangible look at how communities might adapt to future environmental shifts.
In addition to the AR sandbox, the event featured specialized games designed to simplify complex climate concepts. The "Tumbling Tower" activity served as a metaphor for community stability, where the removal of blocks illustrated the various impacts caused by encroaching waters. Furthermore, attendees crafted "sea level friendship bracelets," using colored beads to represent observed changes in water levels along local shorelines, turning scientific data into a personal keepsake.
Background
This initiative is part of a broader national effort known as the Sea Level Education, Awareness, and Literacy (SEAL) project. SEAL functions as a partnership between NASA and four NOAA Sea Grant programs, specifically designed to bridge the gap between complex NASA observations and the needs of coastal communities. The project prioritizes engagement with historically underserved populations who are already navigating the challenges of rising tides.
The curriculum and activities provided during the event were developed to support educators in formal and informal settings. By integrating real-world models and projections, the project seeks to move beyond abstract theory, helping the public understand the mechanisms behind sea level fluctuations and the importance of community resilience.
Key Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Date | June 6, 2026 |
| Estimated Attendance | Over 1,000 visitors |
| Location | University of Georgia Aquarium, Skidaway Island |
| Primary Initiative | Sea Level Education, Awareness, and Literacy (SEAL) project |
| NASA Funding Reference | Cooperative agreement award number NNH21ZDA001N-SCIACT |
Impact
The decision to offer the event free of charge was a critical factor in its success. According to Shannon Matzke, a Marine Educator and Public Program Coordinator at UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant, the accessibility of the event allowed the program to connect with a much broader and more diverse audience than standard programming typically attracts.
By providing educators with ready-to-use lesson plans, the event ensured that the impact of the day would extend well beyond the aquarium walls. These materials focus on teaching students how to interpret sea level rise processes, modeling, and local variations through the lens of NASA-sourced STEM activities. This approach empowers local leaders, teachers, and parents to facilitate ongoing conversations about climate change and adaptation within their own communities.
What Happens Next
While the lesson plans introduced at the event are currently being distributed via direct outreach, the SEAL project team intends to make all developed resources accessible through an online platform in the future. For the time being, educators and interested parties seeking these digital lesson plans are encouraged to contact Shannon Matzke directly at the University of Georgia to request copies for their classrooms or learning groups.
