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.

Applicants will be notified of acceptance.

Typical Conference Schedule:

• Morning sessions: 9 a.m.-noon
• Afternoon sessions: 1:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m.
• Optional evening events: 7 p.m.-10 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.