By: Dr. Daniel Peluso
What does music, indigenous sky knowledge, and stargazing technology have in common?
According to Dr. Daniel Peluso, the answer is: Everything!
June’s First Friday Astronomy Talk
This month’s First Friday Astronomy talk welcomes Astronomer, educator, and aspiring musician Dr. Daniel Peluso. Who invites us to explore Astronomy not just as the science of our stars, but as a shared human story connecting us all throughout history. In his talk, Dr. Peluso shares how to combine traditional knowledge of astronomy, modern tools and technology, and creative thinking to make space science more accessible, meaningful, and inclusive!
Dr. Peluso draws on his experience in working with indigenous communities around the world. He explores how cultural stories and songs pass down rich astronomical knowledge passed down through generations. He also highlights his collaboration with Aboriginal educators in Australia where he’s in the process of co-creating an album that blends modern pop music with traditional sky stories to connect today’s youth with both their heritage and the cosmos.
“Whether it’s through song, a telescope, or a story around a fire- there are many ways to know the stars.”
Dr. Peluso’s talk doesn’t end at storytelling, it is also a celebration and accreditation to indigenous science and lived experience- where astronomy is deeply woven into music, oral tradition, and ceremony. These sky stories, passed down through generations, reflect the rich knowledge and understanding of cosmic patterns. The stories highlight the understanding of seasonal change showing sophisticated understanding, that western science is only beginning to fully appreciate.
Through projects like Our Skies, Dr. Peluso works alongside educators, experienced elders, and artists to honor cultural traditions and identity. Also, while engaging our youth in astronomical and ancestral knowledge, with the goal to build bridges between traditional and modern tools, between contrasting cultures, and between people and our skies.
“Everyone should feel like they can do astronomy.” Dr. Peluso says.
Dr. Peluso’s work is a powerful reminder that democratizing astronomy means way more than just access to telescopes. It means valuing the diverse ways of thinking and knowledge. His work shows that space science is a gateway science. It’s rooted in diversity, creativity, community, and culture. It becomes much richer: a shared journey under some stars!
Join us every First Friday of every month at 7:30pm in the Education Building at Boise State University. The event is completely free, open to the public, and welcoming to all. no science background needed!