
Astronomy & Astrophysics Summer Academy
Launch Into an Immersive and Engaging Introduction to Space Sciences
Students will explore topics in astronomy, planetary science, astrophysics and cosmology while developing foundational skills in observation, analysis, and scientific reasoning through several hands-on activities.
Students will additionally receive advice on how to succeed in an astronomy or physics degree from a current graduate student in astrophysics. They will also learn about current astrophysical research occurring in universities across the US.
By the end of the program, students will have
- Explored the universe through hands on, inquiry based activities such as developing their own star maps, analyzing data through simulated telescopes, and performing research on their own science question
- Discovered the real world applications of astronomy through discussions on the history of scientific discovery and the latest breakthroughs in astrophysics and space exploration
- Developed science communication skills by participating in collaborative projects, presenting findings, and critically evaluating astronomical phenomena from multiple perspectives
- Experienced college life and learned how to leverage academic resources to foster intellectual curiosity and personal growth, making the best of their college experience
Academy Overview
Who
Students completing their sophomore and junior year, ages 16 to 18 by Summer 2025
What
A commuter, in-person summer program to learn about the fields of astronomy and astrophysics through lecture and activities
When
July 28 - August 1, 2025
Where
Rutgers–New Brunswick in New Jersey
Daily Sample Schedule
Below is the sample schedule for a student in the Astronomy & Astrophysics Academy, subject to change.
*Commuter students will be given options to engage in some evening activities pre-planned ahead of time with their cohort. All activities are supervised by a residential or program assistant.
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8:00am Drop-off 9:00am Welcome Orientation
• Introductions, Ice Breaker, Activity11:00am Lecture:
Introduction to Astronomy & Astrophysics
Degree Career Paths12:00pm Lunch 1:00pm Lecture:
Tour of the Universe and Stars2:00pm Lecture:
Mechanics of night sky3:00pm Activity:
Stellarium / Night Sky5:00pm Pick-up -
8:00am Drop-off 9:00am Lecture + Activity:
Celestial Sphere projection11:00am Lecture:
History of Science from ancient to modern times12:00pm Lunch 1:00pm Activity:
Measurement of Earth radius2:00pm Lecture + Activity:
Phases of Venus
Jupiter Moons5:00pm Pick-up -
8:00am Drop-off 9:00am Lecture + Activity:
Solar System11:00am Lecture + Virtual Tour of Galaxy 12:00pm Lunch 1:00pm Lecture + Activity:
Speed of Light
Measurement
Light Curves5:00pm Pick-up -
8:00am Drop-off 9:00am Lecture:
The Sun10:00am Lecture + Activity:
Spectroscopy
Doppler Effect12:00pm Lunch 1:00pm Lecture:
Stellar evolution
HR diagram2:00pm Activity:
Spectral Classification
HR Diagram3:30pm Lecture:
Death of Stars5:00pm Pick-up -
8:00am Drop-off 9:00am Lecture:
Cosmological Scales
Cosmological Principle10:00am Activity:
Homogeneity and Isotropy10:30am Lecture + Activity:
Expansion of the Universe12:00pm Lunch 1:00pm Lecture:
Big Bang
Scientific Method
Content of Universe
Unknown Problems in Astrophysics & Cosmology2:30pm Activity:
Gravity3:00pm Group Project Presentations 5:00pm Break to get ready for dinner and ceremony 6:00pm Dinner & Certificate Ceremony
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