Teen Opportunities

Far Horizons Teens is a curiosity-driven cohort of high school-aged science pioneers embedded in Adler’s exploration program, Far Horizons. Specifically, we use Ground Observation Network cameras (or GONet cameras for short!). GONet cameras were created right here at the Adler by volunteers, staff, and fellow teens on the Far Horizons research team. They take 360-degree images of the night sky.

We use GONet cameras to measure, monitor, and understand light pollution. Right now, we’re in the early stages of planning and implementing a study of the ecological impacts of light pollution and its relationship to tree life cycles, using the GONets to collect data. This summer we will work together to refine our data collection protocols, continue data collection, and communicate about light pollution to the public.

The application for Summer 2025 is closed. Applications closed on April 11, 2025.

Want to level up your skills, make awesome connections, and gain real-world experience at a world-class museum? The Adler Planetarium’s Summer Teen Internship is your chance to do just that—and more!

If you’re a high school student (grades 9-12) ready to gain professional skills, build your resume, and work on real projects, this is the summer internship for you. Whether you’re interested in networking, leadership development, STEM, or the logistics of running an institution like the Adler Planetarium, there’s a spot for you!

The application for summer 2025 is closed.

Mission Near Space is a summer program like no other! 7th and 8th graders become part of a unique team of engineers, educators, and astronomers to prepare, launch, track, and retrieve a scientific payload sent to the stratosphere aboard a high-altitude balloon. The week ends with a showcase where participants present their exploration results to family members.

The application for Summer 2025 is closed. Applications closed on April 11, 2025.

Youth Leadership Council (YLC) is a teen advocacy and leadership-development opportunity for young people with an interest in centering teens’ contributions in museum spaces while building transformational leadership and advocacy skills. YLC members play an important role in ensuring that museum spaces provide equitable and meaningful experiences for young people.

Applications are closed for the 2024–2025 school year.

Far Horizons Teen Captains is a leadership program for young people who participated in Adler’s light pollution programs and are interested in taking on a peer leadership role on the team. The program aims to further develop participants’ technical, planning, and leadership skills, and build on their previous work.

Applications are closed for the 2024–2025 school year.

Youth Organization for Lights Out (YOLO) is a hands-on STEAM program focused on environmental justice, specifically addressing light pollution and advancing light justice. Hosted after school at Little Village Lawndale High School (LVLHS) in partnership with Enlace Chicago, YOLO inspires teens to explore light pollution and its effects on health, ecosystems, and communities. Through learning and advocacy, participants gain the skills to drive positive change. YOLO developed the Little Village Night Sky exhibit at Adler Planetarium and currently organizes events to raise awareness and promote lighting justice in the community and at the Adler Planetarium.

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Aliza S.
Anthony O.
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Evelyn G.
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Liliana F.
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