Blue Hill Observatory offers intensive summer programs for youth interested in weather, climate, and the environment, as well as spring break and…
Blue Hill Observatory offers intensive summer programs for youth interested in weather, climate, and the environment, as well as spring break and school break options. All programs are held at and around the Observatory on Great Blue Hill. See below for details on each.
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Scholarships Available
Financial assistance of various levels is available for a limited number of applicants in all programs. Apply early — spots fill on a rolling basis.
Summer 2026 — High School
Rising 8th Graders – College Freshmen
An intensive week-long program for aspiring meteorologists. Students experience immersive weather observation and forecasting, examine broadcasting techniques from local meteorologists — including veteran Tim Kelley — and prepare and record their own personal forecast. Students explore careers from researchers and broadcast meteorologists to weather observers and more.
Applications open January 5, 2026 and are accepted on a rolling basis until May 1, 2026. Scholarships of various levels are available for a limited number of applicants.
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Summer 2026 — ALL AGES
A VIRTUAL CAREER EXPLORATION PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS
Are you fascinated by weather, storms, climate, and the science behind forecasting? Join us for Explore Your Meteorology Career, a new three-day virtual program designed to introduce students to the exciting world of careers in meteorology and atmospheric science.
This program is the second in a new career pathway series and serves as a complementary program to our Launch Your Meteorology Career program. During this engaging half-day virtual experience, students will:
Applications open January 15, 2026 and are accepted on a rolling basis until July 15, 2026. Scholarships of various levels are available for a limited number of applicants.
Partner organizations: We are also accepting applications from partner organizations.
Summer 2026 — Elementary
Ages 8–11
Students create their own Micro Weather Station (MWS) to monitor and analyze real-time data at Blue Hill Observatory. Working in teams, they collect and compare data to real-world observations, uncovering patterns from local microclimates to broader climate trends — discovering how sensors work and how data tells a story.
Children should dress for the outdoors. Bring hiking boots or sturdy sneakers, two snacks, lunch, and a refillable water bottle.
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Ages 7–12
Students explore the great outdoors of the Blue Hills while learning about weather, climate, and their impact on the environment. Every day starts with a hike to the Observatory (about 1 mile). Each week has its own theme — families can choose the session that fits best, or sign up for more than one.
Children should dress for the outdoors. Bring hiking boots or sturdy sneakers, two snacks, lunch, and a refillable water bottle. Groups are often divided into two smaller groups by age. If your student is outside this age range, contact education@bluehill.org to discuss options.
Summer Programs — Groups
If you are a summer program organizer looking to bring your group to Blue Hill Observatory for a field trip, visit our Field Trips section to learn more about available options.
Monthly Skymail, event announcements, and research summaries.
