Astronomy Camp - A Summer Science Camp

The Thrill of Discovery!!!
That's what Astronomy Camp is all about! From the dark sky environment at Kitt Peak National Observatory just west of Tucson, Arizona, students of all ages explore "the heavens" with large telescopes and experience the joys of scientific inquiry. In this "immersion" experience, campers become real astronomers; operating research-class telescopes, keeping nighttime hours, interacting with leading scientists, interpreting their own observations, investigating their own questions and curiosities, and most importantly to have fun doing so.

Astronomy Camp is not solely about astronomy and whats in the sky, it is a unique investigation into both science and engineering sponsored by the Travel program of The University of Arizona's Alumni Association. This "science camp" is available internationally to teenagers and adults. These camps emphasize a hands-on learning approach and activities are driven by student involvment and interest. A prior background in astronomy is not required, nor is a connection with The University of Arizona. In addition, there are also opportunities available for educators, school groups, and Girl Scout trainers with an emphasis on how to inspire new generations of students to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Girl Scout leaders are supported through the NIRCam instrument program of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). To read more about personal accounts of Camp experiences, several have been recently published in The Reflector magazine of the Astronomical League, Universe Today, and on Astromart.

Parents have often asked why the teen Astronomy Camps are so "life-changing" and "inspiring" to their children. Educational research reveals several reasons:

A youth-centered, personal approach by Camp staff, treating youth as collegues rather than children
Authentic scientific inquiry with realistic projects involving modern research telescopes & equipment
Real scientists as mentors
Student peers with a common interest in science and engineering
A fun attitude toward learning
The aesthetic qualities of a mountaintop "sky island" with dark skies

To encourage all interested students to come explore science and broaden their minds, scholarship opportunities are available for those students in need!