Astrophysics
Three-Week Summer Science Program
Explore these astounding questions with our BLI teachers and guest speakers who have included physics scholars from Harvard, Tufts, Princeton, and more. Master the mathematical formulas and concepts key to astrophysics under the direction of our experts.
Our experts direct students to live streams of data from space to in-class analysis. Students investigate radio signals from deep space, examine satellite leads from distant solar systems, and monitor images from the Hubble telescope in order to track incoming comets and visitors from deep space.
As we traverse the cosmos, it is imperative to understand the laws of physics that allow astronomers and space scientists to grasp the behavior of celestial bodies. This competitive admissions program offers an exciting look into the fundamental physics of the universe and is ideal for teens interested in physics and astronomy.
June 28th – July 16th, 2027
About: Awards – Research Programs – Sample Week
Hands-on Activities
Here are some examples of hands-on activities from previous years:
Explore SETI signals, using data streaming online to search for radio signals in space that may originate from extraterrestrial intelligence
Use data streaming from Pluto via the Bright Horizons project
Build a scale model of the solar system to understand the laws of physics that allow astronomers and space scientists to grasp the behavior of celestial bodies
Participate in an evening of stargazing
Field Trips
Examples of past field trips include:
Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory at Harvard: Get an inside look at world-class astrophysics research, where scientists study everything from black holes to distant galaxies. Students get the chance to explore historic collections like the Harvard Plate Stacks and see how cutting-edge instruments and data analysis reveal the mysteries of the universe.
Museum of Science Planetarium: Explore the wonders of space through captivating full-dome shows and interactive presentations about the universe. Experience realistic shows of the night-sky simulations, learn about planets, stars, and galaxies, and discover the latest astronomical discoveries.
Only have one week? Check out our Physics of Space or Planetary Science programs!
Still in middle school? Start your cosmic journey early with our Astronomy program!
Past Instructor: Scott Scharlach
Scott Scharlach is pursuing a graduate degree in Physics at Tufts University. Mr. Scharlach earned his Bachelor’s degree in Physics from Pomona College. He had earlier graduated as Valedictorian of his high school class! Scott Scharlach has authored several published papers that have appeared in astrophysics journals and has made numerous research presentations. Mr. Scharlach has deep teaching experience as a TA at both Pomona College and Tufts. He worked as a researcher at the Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute and at the Mount Wilson Observatory. Mr. Scharlach has a passion for teaching and was a researcher in child development at MIT. His research presentations have included “Exploration-Based Learning at MIT” at the American Association of Physics Teachers and “Sunspots and Geomagnetic Storms” for the Tufts Physics & Astronomy Department.
Student Comments
‘I liked the variety of topics we talked about, the teacher kept us engaged and answered all questions as best he could. I enjoyed the field trips, class activities and games and the passion everyone (students & Scott) had for physics.’
‘I loved it!!! We learned about so many interesting topics of all difficulties, from stars to quantum mechanics. There were many hands-on activities & opportunities to exercise our knowledge outside of normal teaching styles. Scott also valued our education & was as excited about physics as all of us are, & he was able to help us understand complex concepts at a deeper level.’
‘I really enjoyed it! I learnt a lot, and the course was pretty well-paced and intriguing. I also appreciated that the material was able to be modified for those with varying knowledge about astrophysics–it was both accessible to those who were newer to the topic, while easily modified to challenge those with more advanced knowledge.‘
Student Comments
‘I really liked the program! It was entertaining, I learned a lot of new material, and I wanted to keep going when it was done! Scott is one of the sweetest teachers I have met, and he entertained great while still making the learning fun!
‘The program was very informative. Scott made sure that everyone was on the same page and encouraged us to ask questions. Much of the curriculum was centered around things we collectively decided on, such as the many worlds interpretation and the Fermi Paradox.’
‘Scott was always interested in the topics and was always excited to teach us, allowing us to feel more engaged. The topics were interesting (because they were based on our interests) and were very planned out.’
‘I liked how hands-on the teacher made the program because it really helped me grasp certain ideas and topics I otherwise wouldn’t get.’
Note: This page represents our best expectations for the program. Activities and instructors are subject to change. In such cases, similar activities and a comparably qualified instructor will be sought.
Our Programs are Featured on the National Association for Gifted Children Website
Join Our Mailing List
Register & Pay for a Program
Apply For a Three-Week Program