Each
year, uprising seniors from all around New Hampshire that
are in the top 10% of their class are invited to consider
applying to the Advanced Studies Program (ASP). This is a
program that gives students a prep school experience with
a concentration in one subject matter of which astronomy is
included. Typically, twelve students are selected to spend
five and a half weeks of their summer immersed in the subject
of astronomy. This includes working at the Hawley Observatory
every night it is clear, and hopefully until the birds start
to chirp! During ASP, this occurs at 4 AM. The following is
the course description for the Astronomy course. If you are
interested in more specific information, you can click on
the St. Paul's School shield at the top of the page or this
ASP link.
"Astronomy
examines the seemingly static skies and considers the questions
they raise. How was the universe born, or was it always here?
Will it die? How old are we? What else is out there? From
constellations to quarks, Astronomy is the ultimate exercise
in philosophy, abstract thinking, history, and exploration.
Through
readings, student presentations and papers, guest speakers,
field trips, and observations, students will measure and discuss
the observable universe as well as that which is invisible
to us. The St. Paul's School Hawley Observatory boasts many
domes, research quality telescopes, its own library, and databases.
Whenever the skies are clear, observing sessions can extend
as late as 4 a.m., as students become proficient with the
equipment available to them. The ultimate goal is to complete
an observing project by the end of the course. To complement
the work at the observatory, there are a number of laboratory
exercises that are designed to give students an overview of
the measurements astronomers must make to gain an understanding
of how this mysterious universe ticks.
Successful
completion of courses in algebra, pre-calculus, geometry,
and chemistry is a prerequisite. Physics is helpful but not
required. Background knowledge of astronomy is not assumed.
A willingness to maintain unusual hours is a must!"
This
year's 2005 students are listed
below and by clicking on thier names, you will reach their
personal web pages, where they have collected together the
work they have completed. By clicking on their Solar System
object symbol, you will see them at work.
And
our beloved Interns, who come as college seniors or graduates,
and who are considering teaching as a possible career:
