At JL Simpson Middle School, students aren't just learning about space—they're actively exploring it. Thanks to a partnership with the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO), eighth-grade physical science students built a one-of-a-kind cone-shaped horn telescope, a hands-on experience that connected classroom learning to real-world scientific discovery.
Designed to simulate the technology used in professional radio observatories, the telescope detects radio waves from the Milky Way galaxy. But this project was about more than just building—it was about curiosity, innovation and seeing science in action.
Bringing Science to Life
Aligned with the Grade 8 physical science standards, this immersive unit took students on a journey to explore the nature and structure of matter as well as the characteristics of energy. Working through engineering design practices, they asked questions, defined problems and applied the scientific method to investigate and analyze data.
With guidance from NRAO experts, students gained a deeper understanding of how astronomers use radio waves to study space. Unlike traditional optical telescopes that rely on visible light, horn telescopes "listen" to the universe by funneling radio waves into a receiver. Positioned at just the right angles, these devices can detect signals from deep space, allowing astronomers to study celestial objects hidden from the human eye.
The Power of Partnership
The partnership with NRAO enhanced students' understanding of science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) and ignited their interest in future STEM careers. By working with professionals in the field, students saw firsthand how scientific principles translate into real-world exploration.
“This project gave students a unique opportunity to step into the shoes of engineers and astronomers,” said Nick Grzeda, Supervisor of Computer Science. “They weren’t just learning about science—they were doing science. And that’s the kind of experience that sparks lifelong curiosity.”
Through hands-on discovery, teamwork and expert mentorship, JL Simpson students are proving that the sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning.