Skyscrapers will be piloting a youth program this fall.  We’ve adopted the Sky Puppy program from the Astronomical League.  It is designed for children of 6-10 years and includes a combination of observing, classroom, and research activities.  As Aaron Clevenson, Program Coordinator at AL writes, “The purpose of the Sky Puppies Observing Program is to familiarize young observers with the night sky and to whet their appetite to eventually graduate from a Sky Puppy to a knowledgeable observer.” Children will be awarded a certificate and pin upon completion.

The program will be piloted in 2-3 communities depending upon the response from the membership. We plan to engage local libraries for space and local public and private schools to drive participation.  We are estimating a commitment of once or twice per month (Oct. – Apr) during the early evening for a facilitator to guide the students to program completion.

The program is ideal because it is driven by the students and easily facilitated by an adult.  No in-depth knowledge of astronomy is required as you guide the students through the program.  All of the materials are self-explanatory and will be provided by Skyscrapers and the Astronomical League.

If you have a passion for astronomy and passing that knowledge onto the next generation of young observers, you are invited to attend an informational Zoom meeting on Tuesday, August 15, 7-8pm.  Please send an email to Michael Corvese at corvesemichael@gmail.com if you plan to attend.  Links will be sent prior to the meeting.  I hope to see you there!