Connecting Classrooms
to the Cosmos
One Sky.
Infinite wonder.
The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory is launching a nationwide, strategic investment in the future of rural education. We’re on a mission to inspire the next generation of explorers by expanding access and understanding of the spectacular night skies that shine on rural America.
Inspiration awaits.
STARS will provide rural schools across America with a state of the art telescope, ongoing teacher training, and learning pathways to inspire the nation’s 9.8 million rural schoolchildren.
Scientists from the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO), part of the largest astronomical research institute on the planet, will travel to these schools to work with educators and students and share their knowledge and passion for cosmic discovery.
We’re doing this because curiosity is an animating force of human progress.
The cosmos has always inspired the next generation of explorers, educators, and innovators.
Our Nation’s rural schoolchildren look up at these shining skies every night, but they face barriers in their pursuit of the curiosity those skies inspire.
Rising Soon.
Beginning Fall 2025, STARS will roll out to rural schools across the state of Arizona, beginning with those closest to SAO's largest field site, the Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory, located in Amado, Arizona. This is just the beginning.
Our vision and mission is to place telescopes and curricula in every rural school in America. Our mission is to gradually expand to other states as the STARS program grows, eventually touching every state and every rural school in the Nation. In doing so, we’ll build new pathways to STEM careers for all children.
This map will grow brighter as STARS expands throughout the Nation. Join us on our mission to place telescopes in every rural school in America.
Powered by you.
STARS has received generous funding from individuals, corporations and foundations, and it can only grow with continued philanthropic support.
Our Nation’s rural schoolchildren need your help, and you can join our Founding Donor, Mr. John C. Ryan, in supporting the next generation of explorers.