# Pulsar Search Collaboratory

Free NSF-funded citizen-science program where students 13+ analyze real Green Bank Telescope data to discover new pulsars, with online training, an astronomer-mentored community, and an optional summer camp at the observatory.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | Green Bank Observatory & West Virginia University |
| Category | stem |
| Cost | Free |
| Deadline | Rolling / check official site |
| Eligibility | Grades 8–12 |
| Format | Online / virtual |
| Location | Various |
| Apply | https://pulsars.nanograv.org/gettingstarted |

## About this program

# Pulsar Search Collaboratory

The Pulsar Search Collaboratory (PSC) is a partnership between West Virginia University, the Green Bank Observatory, and the NANOGrav collaboration, funded by the National Science Foundation. Members analyze radio astronomy data collected by the 100-meter Green Bank Telescope - one of the world's largest steerable radio telescopes - searching for undiscovered pulsars, the rapidly spinning remnants of massive stars. PSC students have co-discovered real pulsars that entered the scientific literature.

## What You'll Do

- Complete the free PSC online course to learn pulsar science and earn analysis certification
- Grade real telescope data plots through the Pulsar Search Dashboard, hunting for new pulsars
- Join community groups and the PSC Slack to work with astronomers, mentors, and peer teams
- Compete in team rankings, and qualify for the week-long PSC summer camp at Green Bank Observatory ($400 room and board, scholarships available) by completing 1,000 plot analyses

## Who Should Apply

Students aged 13 and older anywhere in the US who want to do genuine astronomy research from a laptop. Membership is free, enrollment is open year-round, and no prior astronomy experience is needed - teachers can also form school-based teams.

## Outcomes

Members gain real research experience in radio astronomy and data analysis, a national community of scientists and student researchers, and the chance to be credited on an actual pulsar discovery. Top contributors earn eligibility for the residential summer camp at the observatory in West Virginia.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does Pulsar Search Collaboratory cost?

Pulsar Search Collaboratory is completely free — there is no participation fee. Costs like travel or optional materials may still apply; check the official site for details.

### Who is eligible for Pulsar Search Collaboratory?

Pulsar Search Collaboratory is open to students in grades 8–12 (middle and high school). Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is Pulsar Search Collaboratory online or in person?

Pulsar Search Collaboratory is fully online — students can participate from anywhere with an internet connection.

### How do I apply to Pulsar Search Collaboratory?

Apply directly through Green Bank Observatory & West Virginia University's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Last updated: 2026-07-28.
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