A Universe of Sound: Processing NASA Data into Sonifications to Explore Participant Response

Historically, astronomy has prioritized visuals in processing and presenting information. Scientists and communicators therefore overlook a critical need to communicate astrophysics with blind and low vision audiences and provide novel channels for sighted audiences to process scientific information. This study used NASA data of three astronomical objects that were sonified and presented as aural visualizations. Analysis of 3,192 sighted, low vision, and blind survey participants demonstrated significant learning gains and positive perception and experiential responses from all groups. Results show that astrophysical data engaging multiple senses can establish additional avenues of trust, increase access, and promote awareness of accessibility.