A Changing Earth: Geophysics,Earthquake Seismology, & Crustal Tectonics – PARI Observatory, North Carolina

Student and Parent Guide

Program Details

  • Open to students currently enrolled in Grades 9-12
  • July 3-17, 2008
  • $3,200 (Airfare and books not included)
  • Airport: Asheville Regional (AVL)

newNotable Attractions and Excursions:

  • Utilize state-of-the-art geophysics equipment such as the Plate Boundary Observatory and a seismometer
  • Hear world-renowned guest lecturers and actively participate in lab activities and group discussions
  • Learn from current scientists while conducting independent research
  • Experience optimal night observing in a mountain setting
  • Hike and canoe along the French Broad River and enjoy field trips along the Blue Ridge Parkway
  • Live and study at a former NASA tracking station located in Pisgah National Forest

The Site

The grounds at PARI 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 course, students will investigate the symbiotic nature of the Earth’s crustal composition, plate tectonics, and ground water. Utilizing the geographic wealth of the PARI site, students will analyze protected streams, ponds, and rivers, and study their relationship with the unique geology of the area. PARI is part of UNAVCO EarthScope, and its on-site Plate Boundary Observatory is one of only five located in the eastern U.S. As part of EarthScope, this world-wide effort to monitor plate tectonic motion will provide Duke TIP students with access to extensive data and state-of-the-art GPS technology used to measure plate shift.