Start with curiosity
Students do not need to arrive as experts. The program is meant to help them grow.
Youth astronomy and STEM pathway
A student pathway into real science.
46 North Aquila Team is for students who are curious about the sky, science, data, engineering, communication, or future STEM opportunities. It is being built to support motivated students without requiring them to already know everything.
Current status: 46 North is actively searching for the right Northwoods site for a future astronomy-focused facility. While that search continues, we are building local relationships, gathering educator and community input, and planning future mobile or partner-hosted activities. Public events will be announced only when sites, permissions, safety plans, insurance/logistics, staffing, and weather or seasonal considerations are ready.
Why it matters locally
Student opportunity comes first.
Aquila Team is being shaped to help motivated students explore astronomy, science skills, observation, data, communication, and future STEM pathways with support from educators and community partners.
Learn useful skills
Observation, notes, measurement, teamwork, communication, data, and project habits matter in any science path.
Teacher-supported growth
Educators can help shape realistic opportunities that support schools instead of adding chaos.
Step-by-step
Students can begin before a permanent facility exists.
Student interest, teacher input, and early planning can begin now while the broader 46 North project searches for the right Northwoods site and develops future community-based astronomy activities.
Associate
Introductory astronomy, observation habits, science foundations, and guided activities.
Investigator
Project-based learning, research methods, instrumentation basics, and team science.
Researcher
Mentored independent or team projects with presentation and communication opportunities.
Fellow
Advanced youth leadership, peer mentoring, and deeper research involvement as the program matures.
Connect
Students and teachers can start here.
The interest form is the simple first step. It helps us understand student interest, educator input, school connections, and what support may be needed before formal programs begin.
- StudentsTell us you are interested in astronomy, science, data, engineering, or research opportunities.
- Parents and guardiansHelp us understand student interest and the practical support students may need.
- TeachersShare what would be useful for high school science, STEM clubs, independent study, or enrichment.
- MentorsAdults with astronomy, science, engineering, education, communications, or operations experience can express interest.
Northwoods safety
Safety starts before anyone shows up in the dark.
Future 46 North programs will use practical safety suggestions for night and field activities: check-in/check-out, weather and road conditions, warm layers, high-visibility gear when needed, wildlife awareness, medical readiness, youth supervision, and event-leader discretion.
- Check inFollow event arrival, check-in, parking, and release directions, especially for youth programs.
- Dress for conditionsBring layers, sturdy footwear, weather-appropriate gear, and personal supplies.
- Stay awareWatch for darkness, equipment, uneven ground, insects, wildlife, changing weather, and limited services.
- Respect the siteFollow property rules, reduce unnecessary light and noise, pack out trash, and respect neighbors and wildlife.