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Astronomy telescope at Rutgers University

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.

  • 8:00am Drop-off
    9:00am Welcome Orientation
    • Introductions, Ice Breaker, Activity
    11:00am Lecture: 
    Introduction to Astronomy & Astrophysics
    Degree Career Paths
    12:00pm Lunch
    1:00pm Lecture:
    Tour of the Universe and Stars
    2:00pm Lecture: 
    Mechanics of night sky
    3:00pm Activity: 
    Stellarium / Night Sky
    5:00pm Pick-up
  • 8:00am Drop-off
    9:00am Lecture + Activity:
    Celestial Sphere projection
    11:00am Lecture: 
    History of Science from ancient to modern times
    12:00pm Lunch
    1:00pm Activity:
    Measurement of Earth radius
    2:00pm Lecture + Activity: 
    Phases of Venus
    Jupiter Moons
    5:00pm Pick-up
  • 8:00am Drop-off
    9:00am Lecture + Activity:
    Solar System
    11:00am Lecture + Virtual Tour of Galaxy
    12:00pm Lunch
    1:00pm Lecture + Activity:
    Speed of Light
    Measurement
    Light Curves
    5:00pm Pick-up
  • 8:00am Drop-off
    9:00am Lecture:
    The Sun
    10:00am Lecture + Activity:
    Spectroscopy
    Doppler Effect
    12:00pm Lunch
    1:00pm Lecture:
    Stellar evolution
    HR diagram
    2:00pm Activity:
    Spectral Classification
    HR Diagram
    3:30pm Lecture:
    Death of Stars
    5:00pm Pick-up
  • 8:00am Drop-off
    9:00am Lecture:
    Cosmological Scales
    Cosmological Principle
    10:00am Activity:
    Homogeneity and Isotropy
    10:30am Lecture + Activity:
    Expansion of the Universe
    12:00pm Lunch
    1:00pm           Lecture:
    Big Bang
    Scientific Method
    Content of Universe
    Unknown Problems in Astrophysics & Cosmology
    2:30pm Activity:
    Gravity
    3:00pm Group Project Presentations
    5:00pm Break to get ready for dinner and ceremony
    6:00pm Dinner & Certificate Ceremony

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