Caltech Planet Finder Academy to Provide 30 PUSD High School Students with a Deep Dive into the Field of Astronomy

The Caltech Planet Finder Academy (PFA) will provide 30 PUSD high school students with a deep dive into the field of astronomy, with an emphasis on building a foundation in exoplanet science and data analysis. Topics of study will include telescopes; the scale of planets, galaxies, and the universe; physics of planets; and spectroscopy. Participants will also learn about research trends, career options/and the college application process. The program will consist of a week-long intensive summer experience at Caltech and a series of eight half-day sessions on campus throughout the school year.

Utilizing a group project/collaborative learning format, the program will include instruction and practice in coding and data analysis, discussion sessions with local astronomers, exercises designed to encourage and broaden exposure to careers in science, and site visits to JPL, Carnegie Observatories, Mount Wilson Observatory, Palomar Observatory, and the Thirty Meter Telescope offices.

Application Deadline March 31st

Requirements:
PUSD freshman, sophomore or junior at time of application.
Must have transportation to/from Caltech.
Must adhere to Caltech’s COVID-19 policies (which currently include vaccination, masking, and distancing) at the time of participation. Current Policy: https://together.caltech.edu
Must be available to attend from 9 am to 4 pm Monday, July 11 – Friday, July 15 2022.
Must be available to attend eight Saturday sessions during the 2022-2023 school year:
September 10, October 1, November, 5, December 3, January 14, February 4, March 4, April 15
There are no coursework or GPA requirements.

Apply today at https://forms.gle/4zBWnezaRHWPFPDz9.

Please direct questions about this program to Mitch Aiken (aiken@caltech.edu), Associate Director for Educational Outreach at Caltech.