AstroReach SD

Dark Matter & Python in San Diego

AstroReach SD debuted in Winter 2025 at The Preuss School and will run again in Winter 2026. Preuss is a charter middle and high school on UC San Diego's campus that serves first-generation college-bound students. AstroReach SD is supported by UCSD’s Astronomy & Astrophysics department and School of Physical Sciences.

Program Highlights

• Hands-On Learning: In Winter 2025, students explored the nature of dark matter through lectures and Python coding activities. A series of Python tutorials introduced students to fundamental concepts like the expansion of the universe; the latter stages of the course focused on cosmological dark matter simulations. All course materials are online.

• STEM Career Pathways: Participants visited UCSD’s Astronomy & Astrophysics department to meet researchers and learn about recent astronomical discoveries, tour laboratories, and explore options for careers in STEM.

• UCSD Connection: AstroReach SD leverages Preuss' location on UCSD's campus. The curriculum highlights the research and of local astronomers, and students are connected to UCSD Astronomy undergraduates for advice on college applications.