Carl Sagan Day

As a famous scientist, author, television show host, and researcher, Carl Sagan made a huge impact on the world of science, space and planetary studies.

History of Carl Sagan Day

Always having a keen mind for astronomy and science, Carl Sagan spent his life pursuing education and research in the world of space and planetary discoveries. Though he encouraged skeptical and critical thinking, Sagan was a personality that often considered thinking creatively, particularly when it came to the possibility of life on other planets.

Working as a vital resource for NASA space missions, a popular science author, a pioneer in exobiology and a professor of astronomy at Cornell University, Carl Sagan offered the world a unique perspective. Some of his most important contributions include the discovery of the high temperatures on the surface of the planet Venus, as well as understanding of the seasonal changes on the planet Mars, and the comprehension of the atmospheres of both Jupiter and Venus.

In the common world, Sagan is much more well-known for his popular science theories, particularly his books written to encourage lay people as well as his PBS television program called Cosmos. Living on the edge of the scientific world, Sagan was known for his interest in extraterrestrial beings and what the future might look like for humans in space.

Carl Sagan Day was founded in 2009 by the Center for Inquiry in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in cooperation with the Florida Atheists and Secular Humanists (FLASH). Situated on this day in honor of Carl Sagan’s date of birth in 1934, Carl Sagan Day is here to celebrate and honor the unique contributions of this scientist.

How to Celebrate Carl Sagan Day

Observe and celebrate the birth of this unique scientist on Carl Sagan Day! Consider implementing some of these ideas for enjoying and raising awareness for the day:

Watch the film Contact

In 1997, a year after his death, the film Contact was released, inspired by the stories and ideas that were found in Carl Sagan’s book of the same name written in 1985. Starring Jodie Foster and Matthew McConaughey, this movie offered the unique idea to the world that aliens who connected with humans would not be violent but would, instead, be friendly, compassionate and interested.

Make a Visit to a Planetarium

Those who are interested in learning more about space and taking a personal look at what is out in the cosmos might want to plan a visit to a planetarium in honor of Carl Sagan Day. After all, Sagan was a professor of astronomy and that discipline involves everything to do with looking at the world outside of the planet Earth.

A planetarium is a special kind of theater that allows for participants to learn about astronomy and, particularly, viewing presentations about the night sky. It’s a great way for an individual, student, family or school class to get started exploring the solar system, galaxy and even further beyond. With more than 350 permanent planetarium exhibits in the US, it shouldn’t be difficult to find one to enjoy.

Visit Cornell University

Carl Sagan spent a number of years working as a professor of astronomy at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. In honor of Carl Sagan Day, perhaps a visit to the university’s science center would be a great way to spend the day. Take a walk through the area, tour the campus, visit the library to find some of Sagan’s books, and just soak up some Carl Sagan vibes in the atmosphere!

Host a Carl Sagan Day Party

In honor of Carl Sagan Day, it might be a great idea to invite a few friends over to host a viewing of the movie Contact. Go a little further and make it a party by inviting guests to dress up as their favorite scientist or alien. Offer space themed snacks such as cookies decorated like the planets of the solar system. Perhaps offer a reading of an excerpt of one of Sagan’s books, or show clips of his 1980s PBS television show, Cosmos.

Make a Donation to Science Research

Those who are interested in helping others continue on with the brave work and efforts of scientists like Sagan might want to consider making a donation in honor of Carl Sagan Day. The Carl Sagan Institute is just one of many exceptional science centers that could use assistance in the form of financial support.
Founded with the purpose of finding life in the universe, the Carl Sagan Institute at Cornell University bases its research on the pioneering work of its namesake. With an interdisciplinary team, the center is developing tools that will make it possible to detect other forms of life in our galaxy and even beyond.