Sense of Science: Astronomy
by American Printing House for the Blind
Last verified June 15, 2026 · classified May 23, 2026
What it is
Summary
AI-generated from vendor-published content · May 23, 2026
This is a tactile and auditory science kit from APH that teaches astronomy concepts — planets, orbits, celestial bodies — to students who are blind or have low vision. It replaces visual diagrams and charts with raised-line graphics, tactile models, and audio content so students can explore the same curriculum as sighted peers. The kit is designed for classroom or home use alongside a teacher or parent who can facilitate the activities, not as a fully independent learning tool. Tactile science materials like these require intentional setup and some facilitator familiarity with braille-ready or tactile learning — a teacher of students with visual impairments (TVI) is the ideal person to integrate this into instruction.
Quick Facts Catalog facts · auto-generated
- AT Act lending
- Out of pocket
- School district
- Vocational rehab
What Setup Looks Like
- Out of the box
Open the kit and identify included tactile models and graphics — most components are ready to handle immediately. - With a guide
- Review the included teacher's guide or activity instructions to understand the lesson sequence.
- Familiarize yourself with the tactile graphics and models before introducing them to the student — plan 30–60 minutes for a first walkthrough. See manufacturer support resources for detailed instructions.
- With professional help
- A Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments (TVI) can integrate the kit into existing science IEP goals and ensure tactile literacy skills are sufficient to benefit from the materials.
- Expect to incorporate over multiple sessions aligned to the student's science curriculum.
Getting it
Try Before You Buy
Devices like this are often available to borrow through your state's AT Act program — typically free or low-cost — so you can try it before buying or pursuing funding.
Where to Get It
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How to Fund This
Equipment like this is often pursued through official state programs. These are common starting points — each program decides its own eligibility and what it covers, so the first step is always a phone call.
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Sources & fine print
Vendor facts (name, price, platforms, vendor link) sourced from American Printing House for the Blind — view on vendor site; last verified June 15, 2026.
Classification & description AI-generated from vendor-published content on May 23, 2026 · confidence: medium. Vendor specs may lag; verify before relying on details in a clinical or funding artifact.