Accessible Astronomy Activities for the Blind and Visually Impaired in Puerto Rico

We present the design and development of accessible activities in astronomy for blind persons in Puerto Rico. We design for a diverse audience that sees from different perspectives, but with the same purpose: to know and discover the Universe. We adapt tactile materials to develop themes that require visual images. We design and develop three-dimensional tactile material to offer blind people the opportunity to get the conceptual idea of the specific topic under consideration. Listening and designing bearing in mind the voice of blind people with their different life experiences is essential. Through years of experience (2006 – 2020) we have learned to use new strategies in the design and development of tactile materials. We recognize that what we have achieved to date has been possible through the exchange of efforts, collaboration, and volunteering. In recent months, we have been publishing videos with each of the tactile materials, with the purpose of contributing to the literacy of astronomy worldwide.