Top > In the News... > Astronomy PD and Free Middle School Program
YouthAstroNet is a FREE NGSS-aligned program in which students use remotely controlled robotic telescopes and easy-to-use image-processing software tools to enhance their own (and NASA’s) astronomical images. Teachers can customize the unit (between 4-9 lessons) to focus on moon phases, size and scale of the Universe, light and color, and more.
Students learn that there are many ways to be a science person, by exploring the profiles of diverse STEM professionals, asking questions, and exploring simple hands-on activities to connect the science and stories of the night sky to everyday life.
Educators receive FREE online training (4-6 hours), all activity guides, and community support to help facilitate this program.
To participate, educators should please complete this brief application: https://youthastronet.sites.cfa.harvard.edu/join-youthastronet
You can find out more about the YouthAstroNet community. https://youthastronet.sites.cfa.harvard.edu
The program is run by educators and researchers from the Smithsonian Institution and Harvard University at the Center for Astrophysics.
Educators who participate in the project also contribute to research on STEM learning by having their students complete pre and post surveys and will receive $500 for this participation.