Exeter Astronomy Education Conference

Join us June 21-26, 2026

The Exeter Astronomy Education Conference is a weeklong gathering of secondary school astronomy educators at all experience levels. Attendance is by application only.

Teachers from across the United States come together to connect, foster long-term collaborations between astronomy programs, and learn about the latest developments and changes in astronomy and astronomy education. This selective, competitive program is designed to promote effective Harkness-style learning. We accept 12 participants, ranging from beginners to advanced educators, to ensure a diverse and enriching experience.

All attendees participate on a scholarship basis which covers tuition, meals on campus and dorm housing.

Interested educators should submit an application. Application will open on November 15. Applicants will be notified of acceptance.

Typical Conference Schedule:

• Morning sessions: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
• Afternoon sessions: 1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
• Optional evening events: 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. (weather-dependent evening observatory sessions)

Past Topics Include:

• Tips and tricks for successful astronomy education.
• Goals of astronomy courses: Syllabus construction to accommodate the rapid developments in science.
• Meeting the needs of the students and the course: Prerequisites.
• Textbooks and software: available resources for the educator.
• Observing components: Computer use in the field.
• Merging observational astronomy into classroom discussion.
• Equipment selection: Cost versus performance analysis.
• Equipment use: From binoculars to CCD imagers.
• External resources: User groups, associations, planetariums, other schools, etc.
• Course-long projects in observational astronomy.