Program Overview

Introduction to the International Physics and Astronomy Educator Program

The International Physics and Astronomy (IPA) program for educators is an exciting one-week intensive program geared towards high school educators from around the world. Based at the LIGO Hanford Observatory, the IPA program offers participants opportunities to discuss with and hear from experts in modern physics and astronomy, tour sites of historic and scientific interest, and test out classroom activities that they can use in their home institutions.

Program Details

The IPA program is designed to promote the teaching of modern physics in high schools by providing teachers with the opportunity to deepen their physics knowledge and fuel their passion for physics in an environment where teachers from around the world can exchange knowledge and experience. Topics of discussion range from nuclear physics to the emerging fields of gravitational wave and multi-messenger astronomy.

Program Schedule

The 2026 IPA program will be held at the LIGO Hanford Observatory in eastern Washington State, Sunday, July 12 to Saturday, July 18, 2026. Participants must be able to attend the entire program.

Language Requirements

Since the IPA program is offered in English, applicants should be fluent in speaking and writing the English language.

Program Cost

The fee for the program is $300, which is a small fraction of the full program cost. The fee helps cover participant accommodations, meals, and transportation to and from LIGO. Remaining costs are covered by LIGO and other supporters.

Travel Arrangements

Participants are responsible for arranging and paying for their travel to and from the Tri-Cities, WA, including visas if necessary. Ground transportation to and from the Tri-Cities Airport in Pasco, WA will be provided by LIGO.

Important Dates

• November 1, 2025 - Applications open
• January 31, 2026 - Applications close
• March 1, 2026 - Successful applicants notified
• April 1, 2026 - Intent to attend due (including payment)
• July 12-18 - 2026 Program Dates

Application Requirements

When filling out the IPA Program application, you will be asked to provide:

• Basic information about you and your school, such as name and contact information.
• Basic information about your teaching experience, such as how many years you have been teaching and subjects you teach.
• Answers to the following questions:
  • What does inquiry-based learning mean to you?
  • Describe one of your favorite lessons/activities/labs that you do in your class?
  • What do you hope to gain from participating in the IPA Program?
  • How do you plan to share what you learn during the IPA Program?
  • A short 1-2 minute video explaining what interests you about modern physics.