The next Advanced Teen Astronomy Camp is scheduled for
June 22-30, 2024

The Advanced Teen Astronomy Camp is quantitative in its approach. Students are required to have completed satisfactorily either Algebra II or Geometry in school. Attendance at the Beginning Astronomy Camp is not necessary and does not automatically qualify a student for the Advanced Camp.

Students should be between the ages of 14 and 18 years. Some exceptions are made in special circumstances by Dr. McCarthy, the Camp Director.

Reservations are limited to ~25 students. Before applying, families and students should study our COVID guidelines. Students are required to contact Dr. McCarthy before applying. Completed applications are being accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, based on postmark, not delivery date. Beginning in December 2023, qualified applicants will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until the Camp is full. Fully-completed applications will be accepted chronologically based on postmark, not on arrival date. So, expedited delivery (FedEx, UPS, etc.) is not necessary. Admission is limited to ~25 students. To be successful applications must follow all the stated directions. Applications will be judged competitively based on the quality of their essays, and ability to follow directions. Prospective students must contact the Camp Director before applying.

Entrance into the Advanced Teen Camp is increasingly competitive. In 2023, only 30% of all applications could be accommodated. We strongly urge students to adhere to the specific entrance requirements, to follow directions exactly, and to do the best job possible on the essay. Although we want former students to reapply, preference will be given to new students. Former Advanced Campers wishing to reapply must write about a research project which could be accomplished using Camp equipment and which could also involve other Campers; we are happy to answer any questions to help improve your project. See the essay topics for more information.

Before Applying, you must agree to our COVID guidelines and carefully consider your transportation to and from Astronomy Camp. We require that students arrive in Tucson on the first day (June 22) of Camp before 2 pm Tucson time. On the last day (June 30), we will be driving two hours from a remote mountain site to Tucson, so students cannot depart on airline flights any earlier than 2:00 pm Tucson time. Limitations in airline schedules may make these arrangements difficult depending on your location. Although we can accommodate a few students arriving one day early and/or departing one day late, such arrangements are inconvenient and will necessitate additional cost to you.

Please email Dr. McCarthy, if you have travel concerns and questions.

Also, PLEASE NOTE the following:

• The Camp's payment fee ($1900) will be due upon request and will include all expenses during the Camp session such as room, board, materials, and local travel.
• Scholarships are available in case of financial need. A Scholarship Form is attached to the application form.
• Travel arrangements must be confirmed with Dr. McCarthy no later than May 1.
• Scholarship notification will made no later than March 11.

In order to apply, first the student applicant must email Dr. McCarthy to confirm space is available and then mail the following four items in a single mailing to the address shown below. We will then send you follow-up information. Mail the above four items together to: