A Short Guide to Wonder
Wonder often begins quietly. It might come while looking up at the sky on a cold evening, or reading a headline about a distant planet. It’s not always dramatic. Sometimes…
Space feels closer when it’s shared.
We bring the cosmos to life through science, stories, and open collaboration.
Discover What We Do93
of students globally will never study space science in school.
3
million scientific papers locked behind paywalls.
6,000
people brought closer to space through Hα.
We’re here to bring space closer to more people.
We believe science should feel open, human, and shared - not distant or exclusive. That’s why Hα exists: to make space science more accessible through stories, events, and collaboration that invites people in.
We support open research, create content that sparks curiosity, and build tools for participation. Hα is volunteer-led, community-supported, and guided by trust - not paywalls or pretence.
Here’s what that looks like in practice.
- Makes complex space science clear, relatable, and engaging.
- Contributes to real, collaborative research and open projects.
- Creates events and experiences where everyone feels welcome.
- Supports shared dark skies and local wildlife through LYRA‑51.
- Is supported by people who share our mission.
- Keeps science open, human, and accessible to all.
© Hydrogen Alpha. LYRA‑51 is a trademark of Hydrogen Alpha. All rights reserved.
FAQs
What exactly do you do?
We tell stories, support open science, and create ways for people to feel part of space discovery – even without a science background.
Are you a space agency or a company?
No – we’re independent. We take part in citizen science and research projects, but we’re not part of any space agency or any university.
Can I actually get involved?
Yes – you can support, share, or join in the open science projects we contribute to. You don’t need qualifications, just curiosity.
How do you make money?
We’re community-funded through Ko‑fi and partner with organisations that share our values.
Is your content free to use?
Yes – you can share or reuse it with credit. If you’re using it in a project or classroom, just drop us a message.
Why should I care about this?
Because space isn’t just out there – it’s part of how we understand ourselves. And everyone deserves a way in.
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