10 Astronomy Programs for High School Students
Are you fascinated by stars, galaxies, and the mysteries of the universe? If so, astronomy might be the perfect field for you to explore. However, since astronomy can be a niche subject in high school curricula, participating in specialized programs can offer you a deeper understanding and hands-on experience in this captivating field.
To help you get started, we've compiled a list of 10 top astronomy programs designed for high school students. These programs provide unique opportunities to dive into the world of astronomy, whether through immersive summer camps, research internships, or online courses.
Cost: Approximately $8,800 (financial aid available)
Location: New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, and University of Colorado Boulder
Application Deadline: Late February to early March
Program Dates: Late June to early August
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors (rising seniors preferred)
Prize: Completion certificate; research experience
Cohort Size: Around 36 students per site
The Summer Science Program (SSP) offers high school students an intense and immersive experience in astrophysics. Over the course of 39 days, participants engage in a collaborative research project focused on calculating the orbit of a near-Earth asteroid using their own observations. The program’s curriculum includes hands-on astronomical research, nightly telescope observations, and coding for data analysis, providing a comprehensive understanding of celestial mechanics.
Beyond the core research project, SSP offers lectures from guest scientists, field trips to observatories and research labs, and mentoring from professional astronomers and astrophysicists. Students live on campus, forming a close-knit community with peers who share a passion for science. This environment encourages collaboration, critical thinking, and the development of lasting friendships. The SSP experience not only enriches students' knowledge and skills in astronomy but also inspires many to pursue careers in STEM fields.
Cost: $5,970 per course
Location: Online
Application Deadline: Varies; typically in April
Program Dates: August to June
Eligibility: High school students globally; admission is selective based on academic records and interest in the subject
Prize: Completion certificate; academic credit
Cohort Size: Varies by course
The Stanford Online High School Summer Program offers high school students a unique opportunity to explore advanced topics in astronomy and other sciences through rigorous, interactive online courses. Designed for motivated students, this program combines live online instruction, collaborative group projects, and individual research, all led by Stanford faculty and experienced educators.
Participants engage in a challenging curriculum covering topics such as stellar astrophysics, planetary science, and cosmology. The program emphasizes critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and hands-on experimentation. Students have access to virtual labs and simulation tools that allow them to conduct experiments and analyze astronomical data. In addition to coursework, the program fosters a global community of like-minded peers, encouraging collaboration and discussion through online forums and group projects.
Cost: $6,500 (financial aid available)
Location: Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut (with online options available)
Application Deadline: Early January
Program Dates: Several sessions from June to August
Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors from around the world
Prize: Completion certificate
Cohort Size: Approximately 200 students per session
The Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) program is a prestigious summer academic enrichment program designed for exceptional high school students from around the globe. The Frontiers of Science & Technology session within YYGS offers an in-depth exploration of various scientific disciplines, with a significant focus on astronomy. This program aims to cultivate critical thinking and leadership skills through a rigorous curriculum, engaging lectures, and collaborative projects.
Participants in the astronomy-focused track delve into topics such as astrophysics, cosmology, and space exploration. The program includes lectures from Yale faculty and visiting experts, seminars, and hands-on projects that encourage students to apply their knowledge in practical settings. Students also have opportunities for field trips to research facilities and observatories, enhancing their understanding of real-world scientific applications. The collaborative and multicultural environment of YYGS fosters a global network of future leaders, providing an enriching experience both academically and socially.
Cost: Free (students are responsible for travel expenses to NASA centers)
Location: Online course and week-long summer experience at a NASA center
Application Deadline: October
Program Dates: Online course runs from November to February; summer experience in June/July
Eligibility: U.S. high school juniors
Prize: Completion certificate; unique research and project experience
Cohort Size: Approximately 270 students selected for the summer experience
NASA High School Aerospace Scholars (HAS) offers high school juniors the opportunity to explore the fields of aerospace and astronomy through an immersive online course and a week-long summer experience at a NASA center. The program begins with an interactive, self-paced online course that covers various topics, including aerospace engineering, planetary science, and space exploration. This portion of the program challenges students to think critically and solve complex problems related to space science.
Students who successfully complete the online portion are invited to a week-long summer experience at a NASA center, where they work in teams to design a mission to Mars. This hands-on project allows students to collaborate with NASA engineers and scientists, tour NASA facilities, and apply their newfound knowledge in a real-world setting. The summer experience emphasizes creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving, providing a glimpse into the exciting world of space exploration.
Cost: $3,250 - $6,960 (financial aid available)
Location: Various locations, including Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions; early applications encouraged
Program Dates: Late June to early August
Eligibility: Students in grades 7-12 who meet CTY's eligibility criteria based on standardized test scores
Prize: Completion certificate; academic enrichment
The Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth (CTY) Summer Programs offer academically gifted students the chance to explore advanced topics in a rigorous and stimulating environment. Among the many courses available, CTY provides specialized astronomy classes that cover subjects like stellar and planetary astronomy, cosmology, and observational techniques. These courses are designed to challenge students and deepen their understanding of the universe.
Participants in the CTY summer programs benefit from the curriculum, which blends lectures, laboratory work, and hands-on activities, including nighttime telescope observations. This immersive experience allows students to explore the wonders of the cosmos while developing critical thinking and research skills. Beyond academics, the program includes recreational activities and social events, creating a well-rounded summer experience that fosters both intellectual growth and personal connections.
Cost: Free (students may need to cover travel and accommodation expenses)
Location: Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, Princeton, New Jersey
Application Deadline: Early March
Program Dates: June to August
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors with a strong interest in physics and astrophysics
Prize: Completion certificate; hands-on research experience
Cohort Size: Approximately 10-15 students
The Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) Summer Internship Program offers high school students a unique opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research in plasma physics and astrophysics. This prestigious program is designed for students with a strong interest in science and a desire to work alongside leading researchers in the field.
During the internship, participants in the program are paired with PPPL scientists and engineers, working on research projects related to plasma physics, fusion energy, and astrophysics. The program includes hands-on laboratory work, data analysis, and participation in scientific discussions and presentations. Students gain practical experience with advanced research equipment and techniques, enhancing their understanding of complex physical phenomena.
In addition to research activities, the program includes seminars and workshops on various topics in physics and career development, providing a comprehensive educational experience. The PPPL Summer Internship Program not only deepens students' knowledge of physics and astrophysics but also inspires them to pursue further studies and careers in STEM fields.
Cost: $345
Location: University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
Application Deadline: Early April
Program Dates: Typically in June
Eligibility: High school students who will have graduated from 10th, 11th, or 12th grade by Summer 2024
Prize: Completion certificate; hands-on research experience
Cohort Size: Approximately 20-30 students per session
The University of Texas Astronomy Summer Camp offers an engaging and immersive experience in the field of astronomy. Held at the University of Texas at Austin, this week-long camp provides participants with the opportunity to explore the universe through a variety of hands-on activities, lectures, and observational sessions. This program is designed for students eager to deepen their understanding of astronomy and consider further studies in this field.
Throughout the camp, students engage in nighttime observations using the university's telescopes, analyze data, and participate in interactive lectures on topics like stellar formation, black holes, and the search for extraterrestrial life. The curriculum is structured to offer a comprehensive overview of both theoretical concepts and practical skills in astronomy. Beyond the academic components, the camp includes field trips to local observatories and science centers, as well as recreational activities that encourage teamwork and camaraderie among participants.
Cost: Approximately $9,499 (financial aid available)
Location: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Application Deadline: Early April
Program Dates: Typically in July
Eligibility: High school students entering grades 10-12
Prize: Completion certificate; hands-on research experience
Cohort Size: Approximately 30 students
The Experimental Physics Research Academy at the University of Pennsylvania offers high school students an in-depth exploration of experimental physics through a rigorous four-week summer program. Designed for those with a strong interest in physics, this program provides a blend of lectures, hands-on experiments, and research projects aimed at deepening students' understanding of fundamental physics concepts.
Participants work in state-of-the-art laboratories, conducting experiments that cover various topics such as mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, and quantum physics. The program emphasizes practical experience, allowing students to design and carry out their own experiments, analyze data, and draw conclusions based on their findings. In addition to lab work, the curriculum includes lectures by Penn faculty, guest speakers, and group discussions that enhance students' theoretical understanding of physics.
The program also includes field trips to local research facilities and science centers, providing additional context and inspiration for students considering careers in STEM.
Cost: $2,800 (financial aid available)
Location: Online
Application deadline: There are four cohorts throughout the year. Rolling admissions with deadlines in February, May, September, and December. Apply here!
Program dates: There are four cohorts throughout the year in spring, summer, fall, and winter.
Eligibility: All high school students may apply.
Prize: Hands-on research experience
Cohort Size: Varies
Lumiere was founded by researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Hundreds of ambitious high school students do research through the Lumiere Research Scholar Programs. Each student is paired with a top PhD and works with their mentor 1-1 to produce a university-level research paper. The programs are entirely virtual and vary in duration based on the student’s end goal with respect to how much of a deep dive they would prefer. The research opportunities range from STEM to non-STEM subjects, AI, and business.
Close to 400 students have already done university-level research in astrophysics, making it one of the most popular tracks at Lumiere. Past student research has explored how Dark Matter and Dark Energy play with the evolution of the Universe, and the critical factors that affect the habitability of celestial bodies in our solar system - to name a few.
The program’s flexible structure allows students to choose the duration and depth of their research, making it an excellent fit for those with varying levels of experience and time commitments. Additionally, the Lumiere Foundation offers a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students, further expanding access to this enriching opportunity.
Cost: Free – $750 stipend offered
Location: Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas
Application Deadline: Mid-February
Program Dates: June to August
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors
Prize: $750 stipend; completion certificate; hands-on research experience
Cohort Size: Approximately 12 students
The Anson L. Clark Scholars Program at Texas Tech University is one of the most selective and prestigious summer research programs for high school students. Over the course of seven weeks, this program provides academically gifted juniors and seniors with the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research under the mentorship of Texas Tech faculty in a variety of fields, including astronomy and astrophysics.
Participants are paired with faculty mentors based on their research interests and work on individual projects throughout the summer. The program’s curriculum includes daily seminars where students learn about different areas of research, scientific methodologies, and the academic inquiry process. In astronomy, students might engage in observational studies, data analysis, and theoretical research using advanced telescopes and scientific instruments.
In addition to their research work, Clark Scholars participate in various academic and social activities designed to enhance their overall experience. These include field trips, workshops, and guest lectures by renowned scientists and researchers. T The program also places a strong emphasis on developing communication skills, with students presenting their research findings in a final symposium. By the end of the program, participants gain hands-on research experience, enhance their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, and form lasting connections with peers and mentors.
Our Thoughts
This article highlights a selection of prestigious summer programs designed for high school students passionate about astronomy and STEM fields. These programs offer rigorous academic experiences, including hands-on research, advanced coursework, and opportunities to work with leading scientists and researchers. Participants engage in various activities such as telescope observations, data analysis, and collaborative projects, enhancing their understanding of complex scientific concepts and fostering a deeper appreciation for the universe.
Beyond the academic curriculum, these programs provide a supportive and stimulating environment where students can build critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They also emphasize the development of communication abilities through presentations and symposia. Through these enriching experiences, students form lasting connections with peers and mentors, preparing them for future academic and professional success in STEM fields while nurturing their passion for scientific discovery.
Lydia is currently a senior at Harvard University, studying Molecular and Cellular Biology and Economics. In high school, she was the captain of her high school’s Academic Decathlon team and attended the Governor's School of Engineering and Technology. She aims to become a life sciences consultant after graduation.
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