  The Cosmic-Ray Extremely Distributed Observatory (CREDO) uses the hunt for
particle cascades from deep space as a vehicle for a unique "bottom-up"
approach to scientific research. By engaging the non-specialist public of all
ages as "citizen scientists" we create opportunities for lifelong learning for
individuals as well as for cooperation and the sharing of common educational
tools amongst institutions. The discoveries of these citizen scientists will
feed directly into a pioneering new area of scientific research oriented on
Cosmic Ray Ensembles (CRE). The detection (or non-detection) of such particle
groups promises to open up a new method for exploring our universe, and a new
channel on the multi-messenger stage, oriented on both astro- and
geo-investigations. The opportunities this would create for cross-disciplinary
research are significant and beneficial for individuals, networks of
institutions and the global communities of both professional scientists and
science enthusiasts.
