A HOLOtta Fun: Explaining Astronomy with 3D Holograms

Traditional visual aids used in astronomy outreach (such as 2D telescope images) can fail to effectively convey complex and abstract ideas to lay audiences. With the advent of impressive CGI images widely available in film and other media, these aids may also not meet their expectations or visually engage people. To address this, we have been employing 3D holograms in lieu of 2D images for astronomy-based outreach activities both in-person (pre-pandemic), and virtually since the start of the pandemic. Here we demonstrate how the reader can make and incorporate holograms in their own virtual talks (no budget required) and present the feedback we’ve received so far.