Native American Astronomy Outreach Program
Help Native American students see themselves as scientists
Lowell Observatory’s Native American Astronomy Outreach Program (NAAOP) has been working to enhance STEM education in native classrooms since its founding by Lowell astronomers Dr. Amanda Bosh and Dr. Deidre Hunter more than 25 years ago.
Modeled after the Astronomical Society of the Pacific (ASP)’s Project ASTRO, NAAOP pairs Lowell astronomers and educators with elementary and secondary school teachers from several native peoples in Northern Arizona to create a fun and engaging science curriculum. Lowell staff bring astronomy activities and lead educational programs alongside classroom teachers to model hands-on science lessons. Native American students meet a professional scientist and dispel myths of what it means to pursue a career in STEM–science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Learn More
25 Years and Counting
Since the Native American Astronomy Outreach Program (NAAOP) began in 1996, Lowell Observatory has directly impacted more than 3,000 students and 100 teachers. In the 2020-21 school year, we began our first partnership with the Apache Nation. For a detailed list of the teachers and schools we have partnered with, see our program history.
How to Give
The fastest and most secure way to give your NAAOP gift is right here through our website. Use the form below to give a one-time gift or one that recurs monthly, quarterly or yearly.
You can also mail a check payable to Lowell Observatory. Please include the completed donation form with your gift.
Give OnlineSample Program Expenses
Donations fund NAAOP activities not covered by grants. Examples of program expenses include:
- Supplies for one class partnership: $800
- One community star party on the reservation: $1,000
- One class visit to Lowell: $2,000
- Lowell staff travel to schools: $4,500
- Customized science curriculum to share online: $14,250
Programs to Support
Donate Today
Science Education and Public Outreach
Help inspire the next generation of scientists!
Historic Preservation and Archives
Help preserve Lowell Observatory’s rich heritage of discovery.