Astronomy & Astrophysics Summer Academy

Throughout the week, students will meet real astrophysicists and graduate researchers, learning about their ongoing research and career paths while having the opportunity to ask questions about the mysteries of the universe and what it’s like to study them professionally. They will also tour the Rutgers Observatory and learn how telescopes are used to explore the cosmos.

By the end of the week, 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

Students ready to take their exploration of the universe to the next level will engage in a week-long, college-level research experience in astrophysics. Building on the foundational concepts introduced in Week I, this advanced session guides students step-by-step through an astrophysical research project inspired by published work on a special class of stars and their connection to galactic evolution.

Throughout the week, students will learn how professional astrophysicists transform raw observations into scientific discoveries. They will gain hands-on experience using modern research tools such as SQL, Python, and major astronomical databases including SDSS and Gaia. Students will analyze real astrophysical data, visualize their results, and interpret them within the broader context of stellar and galactic astronomy.

Students will also have the opportunity to further explore current research with active Rutgers astrophysicists, learn about the scientific publication process, and, weather permitting, participate in an observing session at the Rutgers Observatory.

By the end of the program, students will have:

• Conducted a guided astrophysical research project, from defining a question to analyzing data and interpreting results
• Learned to query and combine professional databases such as Gaia and SDSS using SQL and Python
• Applied data-science techniques to clean, visualize, and statistically analyze real astronomical data
• Gained insight into undergraduate research and the broader process of discovery and peer-reviewed science in astrophysics.

This advanced week is ideal for students who have completed Week I of the Pre-College Astronomy & Astrophysics Academy or who already have a strong interest in physics, astronomy, or data science and wish to experience what real astrophysical research entails.