Meet Evelyn Castaneda, undergraduate astrophysics major and NASA Eclipse Ambassador

In high school, undergraduate Evelyn Castaneda thought she wanted to study software engineering. But when she came to UC Irvine and learned about the extensive research in physics and astronomy at the School of Physical Sciences, she decided to study the stars instead. “Space is very beautiful,” said Castaneda, who’s originally from Los Angeles and is now majoring in astrophysics in the UC Irvine Department of Physics & Astronomy. “I think the most beautiful aspect of space lies in its mysteries, from enigmatic exoplanets and galaxies to the tantalizing question: Are we alone in the universe? These mysteries ignite my curiosity and fuel my yearning for deeper exploration.” Now, as Castaneda takes her first steps toward the night sky, she’s sharing her journey with others as a NASA Eclipse Ambassador. On April 8th, the moon will pass in front of the sun, and as a NASA ambassador Castaneda will help lead the School of Physical Sciences’ Partial Solar Eclipse Viewing. Her mission: help communities in her native Los Angeles and in Orange County learn about and enjoy the eclipse. “I want to give back to my community, and become a better person overall,” Castaneda said. “I aim to help the community as I’ve become a part of UC Irvine. I want to positively impact the Irvine community by fostering a sense of inclusivity, particularly as we approach the upcoming eclipse.”