Bringing Astronomy to the Public
Introducing Astronomy to Youth/Family Groups
Young people are naturally curious about astronomy, but often don't have a place to indulge their interest. The NJAA believes that it is imperative to get young people involved in the sciences, and that there are many opportunities within the field of astronomy for children and families to learn together, and get introduced to a subject that could well turn out to be a lifelong interest.In addition to the nights when we are open to the public, we offer specialized workshops geared to youth and family groups, such as Scouts, Homeschoolers, 4-H, and more. We can help a scout group earn a badges or belt loops, or customize a program to your group's specific needs. These programs must be booked in advance, and are usually conducted M-F evenings, although daytime and Saturday hours may also be arranged. If you are camping in Voorhees State Park and want to bring a group to visit the Paul H. Robinson Observatory, we would love to see you, but please provide us with at least 14 days notice if you are coming with a group of 6 or more. This is necessary so that enough of our qualified, volunteer staff is on duty to make your experience enjoyable. Click Here to fill out our online form to contact us about bringing your group to the NJAA - we are here and ready to help you!
NJAA is a non-profit organization completely staffed and managed by unpaid volunteers. All fees and donations go entirely toward the operation and maintenance of our building, grounds and equipment.
Youth Group Pricing
SCOUT MERIT BADGE/BELT LOOP TRAINING- $10 per scout up to 15 scouts; $12 per scout over 15 scouts.
- No charge for Den Leaders
- Accompanying adults and accompanying children over age 14: $4.
- Limit 1 adult for every 2 kids.
- Scout groups that are not seeking merit badge training or school groups are priced at $8 per child (Under 14) for groups up to 10;
- Group size of 10 or more: $10 per child
- No charge for Den Leaders or Teachers
- Accompanying adults and accompanying children over age 14: $4.
- Limit 1 adult for every 2 kids.
Young Astronomer Project Nights
The NJAA offers a Young Astronomers program on the second Saturday of the month from May through October. These events kick off at 6:30pm and run until approximately 8:00pm and often include some kind of presentation, but the focus will always be 'hands on' learning. We ac cept an age range of 7 to 13 years old. Participants will often be involved in some sort of activity that allows them to 'make and take' an end product of an activity that can be taken home for further exploration and fun. We also set a limit of 3 kids per parent/adult. Adults will be involved in all activities and will sit with, work with and learn astronomy alongside their children. Once you have arrived with your children, please plan on staying for the duration of the event (6:30-8pm). There is no charge for this event, but as we are a not-for profit, strictly volunteer organization, donations are always welcome and appreciated. Because of the special set up necessary for our auditorium, Young Astronomers events requires sign up, we have a strict limit on the number of attendees we can accomodate.Young Astronomers Event Sign Up
George Reiner's Young Astronomers Photo Album
NJAA - A Commitment to Education
Education is the premiere reason the NJ Astronomical Assn. is in existence. During the early 60's, the seven founders decided to bring astronomy to the people of Hunterdon County and New Jersey. To achieve this, they decided to build an Observatory and Astronomical Center.The Observatory began having outside speakers come to the Buzz Aldrin Center to give a presentations in the mid - 1980's, and have been very popular. The topics are astronomy, physics and related sciences. Click here for the current schedule.
The Adult Education Committee was created in the late 1980's when The Hunterdon County Education Services approached the club about running a session in astronomy. The sessions are designed as an introduction and no knowledge of astronomy is needed These sessions are scheduled throughout the year. Recently we entered into an agreement with The Jointure and are sponsoring classes for this fine organization.
The NJAA operates on leased premises administered by The State of New Jersey, Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Parks and Forestry