PAINTING GRAPHS WITH SOUNDS: COSMONIC SONIFICATION PROJECT

Abstract

CosMonic (COSmos harMONIC) is a sonification project with a triple purpose: analysis (by means of sounds) of any type of data, source of inspiration for artistic creations, and pedagogical and dissemination purposes. In this contribution we present the work recently produced by CosMonic in the latter field, creating specific cases for the inclusive astronomy dissemination project Astroaccesible for blind and partially sighted people, but also aimed at a general public that wants to understand astrophysics in an alternative format. For this project, CosMonic seeks to create simple astronomical cases in their acoustic dimension in order to be easily understood. CosMonic’s philosophy for these sonifications can be summarized in a simple metaphor: painting graphs with sounds. Sonification is a powerful tool that helps to enhance visual information. Therefore, CosMonic accompanies its audios with animations, using complementary methods to reach a general public. In addition to providing some cases created by CosMonic for inclusive astronomy, we also share our experience with different audiences, as well as suggest some ideas for a better use of sonification in (global) inclusive outreach.