Introduction to Astronomy Research

An introductory free online course for astronomy exoplanet research 

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Registrations have been closed for 2024.

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About the Course

Intro2Astro is an introductory 8-week long cost-free online course targeted at aspiring students, researchers, and enthusiasts to step foot in the world of astronomy research. This is the 7th year and iteration of the course dedicated to acquainting students, particularly those from communities with fewer astronomy resources, with the basic tools that astronomers need in their research, and the skills they need in order to gain entry into a more formal research project. With exposure and eventual mastering of the skills taught through the course, students will be better prepared to begin research projects either during the semester or over the summer. Combining coding skills with soft skills such as web development, scientific paper reading, and CV creation can give students an edge when applying for formal research internships.

While the tutorials are focused on exoplanet research tools, they serve as an introduction to the basic skills needed in any field of astronomy. We achieved our primary goal by sending more than 10 students to attend paid research internships from 2018 to 2023, dozens more have learned the basics of Astronomy Research.

The workshop is led by Fei Dai (University of Hawaii), Howard Isaacson (University of California, Berkeley), and Chetan Chawla.

Target Audience

Students: First and second-year undergraduate students, and advanced high school students who are interested in gaining experience in astronomy research but have no previous research experience. There are no prerequisites in terms of content or programming. Although the course is targeted at the above-mentioned group, students from a non-traditional path and those without any affiliation can also apply. No students will be turned away for lack of experience or affiliation, i.e., anyone can sign-up to be a part. Please sign up here Registration Form.

Mentors: Graduate-level students and advanced undergraduates working on astronomy research who are interested in mentoring undergraduate students, developing open-source educational tutorials, and sharing their astronomy inspiration. Please fill out the Mentor Interest Form

Our Goals

After completing the course, students will have the skills needed to quickly ramp up on new astronomy research projects, without the need to brush up on basic skills. The astronomy skills will be focused on, but not limited to exoplanet topics. Students are encouraged to use these skills to explore other realms of Astronomy. Once you have completed all of the tutorials, you will be well-qualified for a paid internship in astronomy research. Many of these opportunities fall under the title: Research Experience for Undergraduates (REUs), and serve as an excellent way to become qualified for graduate studies in astronomy.