Announcement

Summer AstroCamp 2020 applications open soon

31 March 2020

Applications for the ESO-supported Summer AstroCamp 2020 will open on 1 April 2020. AstroCamp is an academic programme in the field of astronomy and physics, organised by the Centre for Astrophysics of the University of Porto (CAUP), that aims to stimulate curiosity and critical thinking. The camp takes place from 9 to 23 August 2020 in a tranquil setting, away from the stresses of urban centres. The programme is intended for secondary school students from 42 different countries, including all ESO member countries, as well as Canada and the United States, in one of their final three years of education before university.

The public presentation about AstroCamp 2020 took place on 22 February. The presentation video is available here.

Students of all backgrounds will come together and take two courses consisting of daily lessons, assignments, and a final exam. Some further highlights include:

Observing the dark night skies with the naked eye and telescopes (including the Perseid meteor shower);
Skyping with astronomers and physicists from different countries;
A computational project, working with data from the world’s best telescopes;
Social activities such as hiking, sports, and film and documentary sessions.

Applications for the Summer AstroCamp 2020 are open from 1 to 30 April 2020. A motivation letter is required, along with a letter of recommendation and recent academic results. Shortlisted candidates, selected on the basis of their motivation and academic merit, will be invited to a Skype interview during the weekend of 30–31 May. The successful candidates will be offered places around 3 June and will need to confirm attendance and complete the required paperwork by 12 June 2020. For students in Portuguese schools the camp will have no costs, while for other students the camp fee is €400. Further details about the camp regulations can be found on the camp website.

The best eligible applicant from one of ESO’s Member States will win a bursary offered by ESO covering the camp fee (worth €400, it covers full-board accommodation, camp activities, internal travel to and from Porto airport, and insurance). International travel to Porto airport is not included.

Disclaimer: Candidates are kindly requested to note that, depending on the evolution of the COVID-19 outbreak in Europe, the organisers reserve the right to cancel the Summer AstrCamp, as an extra safety measure for camp staff and participants. The organisers might consider holding the camp virtually. Further information will be made available in due time.