Wildfire in the West: A Family Event with the Space Science Institute

About this event

Adults and families are invited to learn more about the changing nature of fire risk in the Western United States. Through a talk, demonstrations, and hands-on activities, you'll learn more about wildfire in Colorado and how NASA's satellite observations play a critical role our understanding of wildfires.

Families are invited to enjoy:

Crafts and hands-on activities

Demonstrations of NASA's Earth Information Center, an amazing portable version of the display at NASA Headquarter in Washington DC.

A talk by Virginia Inglesias, Director of Earth Lab at the University of Colorado Boulder

Schedule of events:

6:00 to 6:30-Drop in for demonstrations of the Earth Information Center and hands-on activities.

6:30 to 7:15 Talk by Virginia Inglesias, followed by a Q&A

7:15 to7:30 Drop in for demonstrations of the Earth Information Center and hands-on activities.

Kids will explore data and landsat images of wildfire through hands-on activities. Everyone is invited to check out demonstrations of The Earth Information Center, which allows visitors to see how our planet is changing in nine key areas: sea level change, air quality, biodiversity, wildfires, greenhouse gases, energy, disasters, water resources, and agriculture.

Virginia Iglesias, Director of Earth Lab at the University of Colorado Boulder, will explore fire’s ecological role. We know fire is a natural and often essential part of healthy ecosystems, yet it can also devastate communities. What distinguishes “good fire” from “bad fire,” and why do some fires become disasters? She will answer these questions and more as she details how climate change and development are reshaping wildfire risk in Colorado and across the United States. Drawing on research into past fires, future risk, and wildfire-resilient construction, she will examine how where we build, how we design our homes, and how we manage our forests influence fire’s consequences. The talk will explore how we can make room for beneficial fire while reducing harm to people and property, and how science can inform the choices and tradeoffs involved in living with fire.