PJAS Astronomy Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I get general information about the PJAS? Who do I contact?
You should contact one of the following people:
Mr. Peter Carando
New Castle Senior High School
New Castle, PA 16101
724-658-4098
drifly@ccia.com
Mrs. Rebecca Papson
John F. Kennedy Middle School
Washington, PA 15301
Mr. James Maloy
maloyjw@cobweb.net
724-228-3363
Mr. Donald H. Kieffer
dxk18@psu.edu
Ms. Dori Lijewski
dori@icubed.com
2. What is the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science?
The Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science (PJAS) is a statewide
organization for junior and senior high school students. The PJAS
is designed to stimulate and promote interest in science among its
members through the development of research projects and investigations.
3. How do I get information about astronomy projects in the PJAS?
4. I'll be a participant in the state competition of the PJAS this May at
Penn State. My astronomy project will be in the Earth and Space unit.
Must I fill out any special forms or be interviewed to be eligible for a
PJAS Astronomy Award?
No, you do not need to fill out any special forms or be interviewed
to be eligible for a PJAS Astronomy Award. The awards will be given
based entirely on your standard presentation at the PJAS state
meeting. Good luck in the competition!
5. Are model rocketry projects eligible for PJAS astronomy awards?
Unfortunately, model rocketry projects are not eligible for these
awards unless they are clearly and directly tied to some form
of astronomical research (for example, observations of an
astronomical object that are made from a rocket would be eligible).
6. Are cosmic ray projects eligible for PJAS astronomy awards?
Yes, cosmic ray projects are eligible for PJAS astronomy awards
provided they contain significant connections to astronomy. For
example, connections could be made to the astronomical sources of cosmic rays.
7. What about Global Positioning System (GPS) units?
GPS units can be used in PJAS astronomy projects. However, projects
that focus entirely upon GPS unit testing, without substantial
astronomical connections, will not be elegible for PJAS astronomy awards.
8. If I prepare a superb PJAS astronomy project, can I compete in other
competitions?