#United States #Charles Town #APUS #Skynet #Astronomy

APUS Enhances Astronomy Education Through Skynet Partnership

The American Public University System (APUS) is thrilled to announce a significant advancement in its Space Studies program. The institution's 24-inch research-grade telescope, located at the Dr. Wallace E. Boston Observatory in Charles Town, West Virginia, has joined the prestigious Skynet Robotic Telescope Network.

Operated by the University of North Carolina (UNC), Skynet is recognized as one of the largest online telescope networks globally, connecting professional astronomers, students, and the general public to state-of-the-art observational tools tailored for cosmic discovery. This milestone marks APUS as the first entirely online university to join this unique initiative, reflecting its commitment to pioneering educational methods in astronomy.

Dr. Brian Freeland, the Dean of the School of STEM and School of Health Sciences at APUS, expressed his excitement about the partnership: "This collaboration with Skynet is truly out of this world. It supercharges our Space Studies program, providing students with invaluable experiences using world-class telescopes and the opportunity to explore the universe like never before."

By becoming part of the Skynet network, APUS will provide its students and faculty access to a wealth of resources, including an array of premier global observatories and telescopes. This includes impressive facilities like the 20-meter radio telescope at the Green Bank Observatory and observatories located in diverse regions, including Chile and Australia. Students from other universities participating in the Skynet network will also have the opportunity to use the APUS telescope simultaneously, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

The Skynet network encompasses several prominent observatories, such as:

• - Morehead Observatory (UNC-Chapel Hill)
• - Dark Sky Observatory (Appalachian State University)
• - Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory (Chile)
• - Fan Mountain Observatory (University of Virginia)
• - Astronomical Observatory of the Jagiellonian University (Poland)

This partnership stands to significantly enhance the learning experiences of students enrolled in the American Military University and American Public University by enabling remote control of the telescopes. This innovation allows students to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical astronomical research. Furthermore, APUS plans to incorporate two of Skynet's labs into future astronomy courses, which have received funding from the National Science Foundation and DoD STEM initiatives.

Dr. Ed Albin, Chair of the Department of Space Studies and Earth Sciences at APUS, elaborated on the educational implications, stating: "This curriculum will provide students with invaluable, hands-on experiences in observational astronomy, reinforcing APUS's commitment to high-quality STEM education that is light-years ahead."

Through this strategic alignment with Skynet, the American Public University System is poised to elevate astronomical exploration, making it more accessible to students and inspiring the next generation of cosmic pioneers. This partnership serves as a testament to APUS's dedication to innovation, education, and scientific discovery in the space sciences.

For additional details regarding APUS's astronomy courses and the Space Studies program, prospective students can visit the Center for Space Studies at APUS.

About Skynet Robotic Telescope Network

The Skynet Robotic Telescope Network, hosted at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, is renowned for delivering unmatched observational capabilities. Backed by the National Science Foundation, DoD STEM, and the North Carolina Space Grant, it continually seeks to democratize access to astronomical instruments.

About American Public University System

APUS is recognized for delivering affordable, high-quality, and workforce-relevant education. With over 33 years of experience and a robust community of more than 153,000 alumni from over 80 countries, APUS leverages innovative online learning methods to empower students. The institution is highly ranked for its educational return on investment by the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce.
APUS, which comprises the American Military University and American Public University, holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. For further information, visit www.apus.edu.