Indigenous Astronomy In Danger of Disappearing

The seminar primarily featured a presentation by Chris Cannon, Assistant Professor at the University of Alaska, on Northern Dene astronomical knowledge and cultural perspectives. Cannon explained how his 12+ years of research with Northern Dene Elders and communities in Alaska and Canada revealed a unique constellation system, with the Big Dipper as part of a larger constellation called Yatii (meaning "the one who sits in his house"). This massive constellation spans the entire night sky, with stars named after body parts, emphasizing a holistic worldview where the universe and daily life are interwoven. The Milky Way is seen as the constellation’s trail, connecting the Earth and sky and symbolizing the spirit journey.

Cannon detailed his learning process, where knowledge was shared through lived experiences rather than direct instruction. He emphasized that Dene Elders view relational knowledge, spirituality, and cosmology as interconnected, and traditional knowledge, particularly of the stars, is closely tied to land-based practices, such as hunting and navigation. The discussion highlighted the importance of culturally respectful ways to share this knowledge with a broader audience, including planetarium programs that involve direct Elder collaboration and emphasize relational context. Elders expressed interest in sharing the knowledge to preserve it, as traditional learning contexts are disappearing, but they emphasized that proper cultural context is crucial.

The session concluded with an open discussion about the potential for respectful, community-led planetarium programs and educational materials to share these insights, ensuring they honor the spiritual and cultural dimensions that are central to the knowledge system.