Information for Prospective Shapley Visiting Lecturers

The AAS Harlow Shapley Visiting Lectures Program connects professional astronomers with schools, colleges, and communities across North America. As a Shapley Lecturer, you will travel to a host site for a (typically) 2–3 day visit to deliver a public lecture and often participate in additional outreach activities such as classroom visits, star parties, and workshops.

This is a unique opportunity to share your expertise, inspire diverse audiences, and broaden access to astronomy.

Apply to become a Shapley Lecturer!

Applications for the 2026 program are now open through 31 October 2025.

Eligibility: Visiting Lecturer Applicants

The Shapley Visiting Lectures Program welcomes applications from astronomers and science communicators who are passionate about sharing astronomy with broad public audiences.

  • AAS Membership: Shapley Lecturers are members of the AAS. Applicants need not be AAS members at the time of application, but those selected as Shapley Lecturers will be required to join the Society (as members or affiliates).
  • Background: Most Shapley Lecturers will have completed, or be close to completing, a PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, or a related field. However, individuals with alternative backgrounds and experiences will be considered if they can serve as excellent representatives and ambassadors for the astronomy community.
  • Science Communication Expertise: Applicants should demonstrate excellence and commitment to communicating science to non-specialist audiences. This may be shown through recordings, online materials, or a reference who can speak to the applicant’s communication skills.
  • Employment Status: There are no restrictions on employment status, provided the applicant can legitimately represent the astronomy community.
  • Citizenship/Residency: There are no citizenship, nationality, or residency restrictions.

What’s Expected of You as a Shapley Lecturer

As a Lecturer, you will:

  • Collaborate with your host: Work with the host site to select topics and coordinate logistics. For colleges and universities, you may be asked to align your talk or other activities with curriculum needs.
  • Deliver a public lecture: You are responsible for designing your lecture materials. AAS will provide a slide with program information to include.
  • Discuss your career path: Hosts often value stories about how you became an astronomer and your personal journey in science.
  • Engage in additional community events: Connect with the local community in at least one other way beyond the lecture (often more). This is flexible and shaped through collaboration with your host.
  • Serve as a representative of AAS and the astronomy community: Your participation highlights the importance of sharing astronomy widely and inclusively.

Examples of Past Lecturer Activities

In addition to delivering a public lecture, Shapley Lecturers often take part in community engagement activities such as:

  • Visiting K–12 classrooms
  • Leading astronomy club meetings or community discussions
  • Hosting star parties or public observing nights
  • Meeting with teachers, school leaders, or college administrators
  • Offering small-group workshops or Q&A sessions
  • Joining in local science festivals or community events

Each visit is unique — activities are tailored to the needs and interests of the host site and community.

What AAS Provides

  • Full travel support:
    • Airfare
    • Lodging
    • Meals
    • Ground transportation (as needed)
  • Travel logistics support: Access to a third-party travel agency (optional but recommended).
  • Travel insurance: Coverage under AAS’s policy.
  • Honorarium: An optional $250 honorarium, provided at the discretion of the Lecturer.
  • Program materials:
  • Recognition: Public acknowledgment of your role as a Shapley Lecturer and opportunities to connect with a network of committed outreach professionals.
  • Historical legacy: You’ll join a distinguished list of past Shapley Lecturers.

Your Host’s Responsibilities

Host sites are responsible for providing a venue, engaging their community, and arranging local logistics. Full details for hosts can be found here: Information for Host Sites

Working Together for Impact

As a Shapley Lecturer, you are joining a community of scientists committed to sharing astronomy with audiences that might not otherwise encounter it. By collaborating with AAS and your host site, you’ll help create experiences that inspire curiosity, highlight diverse career paths, and strengthen the connection between science and society. Your expertise and personal story make you the most important part of this partnership.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be an AAS member to participate as a Shapley Lecturer?
Yes. All Shapley Lecturers are part of AAS through one of our membership or affiliate classes. If you are not a member at the time of application, don’t worry — we will help you join AAS during the onboarding process. Membership dues are the responsibility of the Lecturer.

Does the Shapley Lectures Program receive federal funding?
No. The program is entirely funded by AAS and the Harlow Shapley Visiting Lectureship Endowment Fund.

Do I need prior outreach experience?
While experience helps, we welcome both seasoned communicators and astronomers new to public engagement. What matters most is your enthusiasm and your willingness to connect with diverse audiences.

If you have additional Qs:
Email us at [email protected]!

Apply to Become a Shapley Visiting Lecturer

Applications to serve as a Shapley Lecturer in 2026 are now open.
Apply Here!