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In this three-month online research program, students complete a guided astronomy research project using real data from professional resources, including the Washington Double Star (WDS) catalog and Gaia Data Release 3 (Gaia DR3). You will study a double star system—two stars that appear close together in the sky—and learn how astronomers evaluate whether the pair is physically related by comparing modern measurements with historical records.

Early in the program, you will select one double star target from the program’s shared list and learn how to choose a viable system based on basic observational constraints such as seasonal visibility, brightness, and separation. You will then confirm your target in Gaia DR3 and use Gaia’s distance (parallax) and motion (proper motion) information to check whether the two stars are likely associated.

After validating your target, you will review existing background information and prior measurements for your system. You’ll learn how astronomers interpret long-term changes in position angle and separation, and how these data can suggest orbital motion or a simpler linear trend.

The program also includes telescope imaging through the Las Cumbres Observatory (LCO) network. Students complete the required preparation steps and submit materials to the program team so observations can be requested and collected. Using the returned images, you will make measurements, summarize results, and communicate your findings in a short research-style write-up and a final presentation format (such as a poster or brief screencast).

Program Logistics

The Double Star Research Program runs for approximately three months and is designed as a focused, guided research experience from start to finish. Students should expect a steady weekly pace with structured milestones, including target selection, catalog verification, image-based measurement, and a final written and presentation-style deliverable.

Participation is tuition-free. We offer the program at no cost to students in order to reduce barriers to research opportunities and to keep the focus on learning and mentorship.

Successful applicants will show a strong record of academic effort and achievement in math and science, a genuine curiosity about science and astrophysics, and clear evidence that they will take full advantage of a rigorous, mentorship-based research experience. Prior research experience is not required—students who are new to astronomy or research are absolutely welcome, and we value potential, commitment, and willingness to learn.

Students from groups that are historically underrepresented in science and math are especially encouraged to apply. We also strongly encourage students from under-resourced schools and communities to apply, particularly those who may not typically have access to research opportunities.

To ensure students receive meaningful feedback and close support, we keep each cohort intentionally small. Because staff capacity and telescope-support resources are limited, spaces are limited and applications are reviewed with that in mind.

Application deadline: Friday, March 6, 2026 at 11:59 PM (Pacific Time).

Decisions will be posted in the application portal on Friday, March 13, 2026.

All applications will be reviewed after the deadline, and we will begin evaluation only once the application period closes.

Application Requirements

To apply, please complete this online application and submit the required materials listed below. There is no application fee.

Applicants must upload a high school transcript (official or unofficial is accepted, as long as it clearly shows your courses and grades). We also require one recommendation letter from a current or recent math or science instructor who can speak to your academic preparation and learning habits. A second recommendation letter is optional and may be submitted if it adds meaningful context or support to your application.

Goal Get It! recognizes that the Supreme Court issued a ruling in June 2023 about the consideration of certain types of demographic information as part of an admission review. All applications submitted during upcoming application cycles will be reviewed in conformance with that decision.

If you have questions, please contact outreach@goalgetit.org.