Learn what an astrophysicist does

If you like NASA and are considering a career in astrophysics, Astro Scholars is for you!

Astro Scholars is for students local to Baltimore/Maryland/DC/Virginia. It is a week-long interactive mini-course in astrophysics, research in astrophysics, and computer programming. It will be held for 10 undergraduates. The next program will be held January 20 - 24, 2025. Special accommodations will be made for Morgan State students starting classes on January 22nd. Stipends are $575 and are contingent upon attendance and the program’s funding situation. Hotel costs are pre-paid for students who are not within commuting distance.

Astro Scholars will be held at the Space Telescope Science Institute (which runs the Hubble Space Telescope) and the Johns Hopkins University Department of Physics & Astronomy.

Astro Scholars will consist of blended learning activities in which participants learn basic astrophysical concepts and what astrophysicists do on a daily basis.

The program will have a mix of interactive talks, hands-on activities, and research projects. The scholars will be assigned to work on one of three short research projects led by scientists from the Space Telescope Science Institute. Rental laptops will be provided.

No experience in astrophysics is required. Although science, math, and engineering majors are encouraged, they are not required. College and graduate students of any year are welcome to apply.

Astro Scholars is funded by award number 1815251 under AST/AAG-Astronomy & Astrophysics Research Grants with additional funds from the STScI DFR.