Explore the Skies with Us

Astronomy for Kids Using Actual Observatory Telescopes

In this 12-session live online course, students, students learn to use professional observatory telescopes in Chile, Australia & the Canary Islands to explore a wide range of astronomy topics. They also capture high-quality images with the telescopes (student image shown).
About the Instructors
Prof. Mark Baraket (M.S. Astrophysics UC-Berkeley) is a Certified Science & Space Ambassador with the National Space Society, former NASA researcher and experienced astronomy educator. Prof. Joel Gomes (B.A. Physics & Astronomy, M.S. Earth Sciences) is an astronomy educator with over 25 years experience teaching middle school, high school & college physics and astronomy courses.
View Available Class Times
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Inspire the next generation of curious minds and future innovators

Does your child love astronomy and all things space?

This course gives kids the opportunity to experience controlling a professional observatory telescope via remote control, just like a real astronomer!
Most astronomers don't live on-site at the observatories, but instead observe and control the telescope from a distance via special tools. Through a partnership with educational telescope provider Slooh, this course teaches students how to use observatory telescopes located in the Canary Islands, Chile and Australia for hands-on astronomy studies.
We'll delve into a wide variety of astronomy topics in the course, exploring our solar system and universe together as a class. Students will also have the opportunity to take their own photos and to create a high-quality poster with their images.
Course Includes:
  • Twelve 50-minute live Zoom classes with Prof. Mark Barakat (Masters of Science, Astrophysics)
  • Twelve printable Homework Review Handouts and printable Certificate of Completion
  • Class size capped at 12 students for a small group learning experience
  • Zoom recordings available for missed sessions
  • Designed for ages 8-13 (grades 3-7), younger children may participate with parental support.
Recommended Course Materials:
  • Student Subscription to the Slooh observatory telescope service. A link to sign-up at a discounted student rate ($30 for a full year of access) will be emailed upon registration.
Course Syllabus:
  • Session 1: Introduction to using Slooh observatory tools and navigating the software; initial observations
  • Session 2: Constellations
  • Session 3: Our Sun
  • Session 4: Our Moon
  • Session 5: Distances of space objects - Solar System, Milky Way and Deep Space
  • Session 6: Distant Stars
  • Session 7: Planets in Our Solar System
  • Session 8: Far Planets
  • Session 9: Milky Way Galaxy
  • Session 10: Star Clusters
  • Session 11: Nebulae
  • Session 12: Types of Galaxies

Select Course Start Date & Time

(Class times listed in Pacific Time)
Mon. Jan 11 at 5:00-5:50pm PT
12 Mondays | Jan 11 – March 29
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Tue. Jan. 26 at 4:00-4:50pm PT
12 Tuesdays | Jan 26 – April 13
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Fri. Feb. 5 at 5:00-5:50pm PT
12 Fridays | Feb 5 - April 23
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Sat. Feb. 13 at 4:00-4:50pm PT
12 Saturdays | Feb 13 - May 1
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What Parents are saying

"Truly enjoyed this! Highly recommend. Such a warm and educational environment for kids."
- Chrissi B.
"This course was great. My child enjoyed it greatly and learned not just space facts but also the joy of sharing what they found."
- Thomas
"My son has really enjoyed this class. He has learned a lot from it and he's always excited to take the pictures with the telescope. The professor really gives a lot of information but makes it easy for the children to understand. I am very happy we signed him up."
- Karen J.
"This is the second class my son has taken with Mark. He is a wonderful teacher and always engaging. My son loves the classes and the information and how real and accessible Mark makes it all. Mark also invites the students to share and discuss topics together."
- Alicia M.
"Mark is an excellent teacher, and my son thoroughly enjoyed learning all about Astronomy in his class. I would highly recommend Mark's class for any budding space enthusiast!"
- Robyn F.
"Outstanding - my son learned a lot and loves the class!"
- Phalgun R.
"Awesome class. It was invaluable to have someone who actually worked for NASA teaching my daughter about astronomy. It was a great environment to help grow her interest in all things space-related. Also, he was very encouraging and helped build the confidence of each student."
- Julianna N.
"My son has taken a couple classes from this instructor and has learned a lot of new information. The guided notes, online tools, and presentations keep him engaged and learning."
- Lisa

Frequently Asked Questions

How long has Quantum Academy offered classes?
Quantum Academy is a U.S. company focused on providing advanced classes in aeronautics, astronomy and physics for kids. Founded in 2020, we previously offered courses via Outschool under the moniker "Quantum Physics for Kids," teaching over 7000 students and receiving over 1500 5-star reviews. Starting in 2025, we began offering our unique courses directly to parents, at a lower cost than on Outschool and without requiring a monthly membership. Our expert teachers are dedicated to sharing the wonders of physics and science with young learners!
Is this course appropriate for my child's age and skill level?
The course is designed for ages 8-13 (approximately grades 3-7). We have a flexible age policy - younger children can participate with parent support, and older children are welcome if interested. No prior knowledge is required.
How do I enroll more than one child?
To enroll more than one child, please complete the registration form and payment for each child separately.
Will my child stay engaged for the full 12 sessions?
Our interactive format creates genuine excitement that passive video learning can't match. Each session builds anticipation for the next discovery. We have a 97% completion rate across all our courses.
What's your refund policy if my child doesn't enjoy the course?
We offer a satisfaction guarantee. If the course isn't a good match for your learner, you can request withdrawal and receive a pro-rated refund. We can also transfer to another section if there's a schedule conflict.
What technology/equipment does my child need to participate?
Just an internet-connected computer or tablet. Class details, Zoom access and materials will be emailed before the first class.