Above and Beyond: Astronomy, Physics, & Astrobiology – PARI Observatory

In 1836, Ralph Waldo Emerson observed, “The stars awaken a certain reverence, because though always present, they are inaccessible.” A century and a half later, astronomers continue to experience the same awe of which he speaks. However, at the Pisgah Astronomical Radio Institute (PARI) this summer, the stars are no longer inaccessible.

Notable Attractions and Excursions:

• Utilize state-of-the-art astronomy equipment
• Learn from current scientists while conducting independent research
• Experience optimal night observing in a mountain setting Study at a former NASA tracking station
• Enjoy the natural scenic surroundings on nature hikes and canoe trips

The Site

Elevated at 5,000 feet, PARI sits on an expansive 200-acre site in the gorgeous Smoky Mountains 30 miles southwest of Asheville, North Carolina. Once a high-security satellite tracking station for NASA, the observatory at PARI now houses state-of-the-art equipment, including two huge 26-meter radio telescopes similar to those in the famous Very Large Array in New Mexico. Students also have access to a portable StarLab planetarium for mapping the stars any time of day and regardless of most weather conditions. PARI’s remote location and modern equipment make it a ideal location for aspiring astronomers.

The Course

In this astronomy and physics program, students will investigate the questions that have fascinated scientists throughout the ages: What is the universe? Is there life beyond our planet? How do galaxies evolve? Journey with such greats as Galileo, Newton, Kepler, and Einstein as you stretch your mind beyond the surface of our tiny blue planet. Students will investigate many different scientific theories and astronomical phenomena, such as cosmic motion and distances, galaxy and star formation, the motion of the heavens, black holes, and quasars. Students will delve into astrobiology through the exploration of the fate of life on Earth and the possibility of life elsewhere in our vast universe. In addition to the exciting topics, students will operate optical and radio telescopes or work on activities in the on-site portable planetarium. Lest we forget the beauty of the night sky, the mountains of western North Carolina provide the perfect setting for nighttime stargazing! As part of the program, students will also conduct a team research project in an area of astronomy that interests them. This project will be completed under the guidance of instructors and PARI research scientists. At the conclusion of the program, student research groups will present their work in a scientific symposium.

A Typical Day

At the beginning of the program, PARI staff will provide students with a group orientation to the optical and radio telescope equipment that will be used throughout the course. After breakfast, students may meet with their instructor for a brief discussion of the ever-expanding universe or head to the computer lab to study the motion of the stars using computer software. Later in the morning, PARI researchers may share their most recent scientific findings in astrophysics. Students will meet throughout the program to share the status of their team projects and discuss their group’s upcoming plans. Afternoons are devoted to lab activities on the day’s topic, collecting satellite information, or planning evening target lists. The surrounding Appalachian Mountains provide many breathtaking views, and late afternoon excursions are an ideal opportunity for students to hike on the trails surrounding PARI, canoe along the French Broad River, or to take a field trip along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Students who have a desire to delve into astronomy and an interest in working with telescopes and computers in a beautiful setting are encouraged to apply!

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