At a time when the country is advancing its efforts in space exploration and discussing a permanent station on the Moon, as well as pursuing further trekking of Mars, the 23rdOblique Observatory program is an expedient movement designed to help raise a new generation of astronomers to continue and further this worthwhile cause. Simultaneously, the program will be working toward closing the gap of under representation of minorities in the fields of mathematic, physics, and the sciences, especially astronomy. For our country to maintain its technological and scientific lead, all segments of the population must be given the opportunity to contribute to the success of the nation.

By forming alliances with Prince Georges County Public Schools, state and federal public and private agencies and institutions, 23rdOblique Observatory proposes to use its facility to teach select high school students advance astronomy while earning three college credits transferable to in-state colleges and other institutions using The American Council on Education (ACE) accreditation methods. Also proposed is a basic astronomy course for the middle school students to take place over the summers.

This three year program will result in 240 high school students completing the 12-week accredited course in astronomy and 60 middle school students participating in the 10 day summer camp. This hands-on course in astronomy will serve to mutually benefit the students and the nation by providing an opportunity to stimulate young minds towards astronomy, thus contributing to home growing the next generation of astronomers. Additionally, this would be an act of benevolence.