For Earth Science enthusiasts and students interested in exploring the atmosphere, weather, and climate, the National Center for Atmospheric Research is the ideal field trip destination for your classroom. Located in Boulder, Colorado, the research facility offers multiple models, laboratories, self-guided tours led by real scientists, and a variety of educational training opportunities for K-12 students. These variables make for a perfect, engaging, and insightful tour for future scientists in America, inspiring curiosity, discovery, and a passion for learning.
Students and teachers can expect a wealth of hands-on learning opportunities during their visit to the research center. Among its most powerful tools is the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model, which enables students and scientists to analyze weather patterns and enhance forecasting accuracy. For those interested in climate research, NCAR offers the Community Earth System Model (CESM), a dynamic tool that simulates the interactions between the atmosphere, ocean, land, and ice, providing invaluable insights into climate change. These models provide students with a unique opportunity to engage with real-world atmospheric data and deepen their knowledge in the field.
The public exhibits create an engaging and informative environment that promotes educational awareness about the center, while also providing students with valuable career insights, including internship opportunities. The exhibits and laboratories feature interactive learning experiences tailored to different age groups. Cloud Detectives (Grades PreK-K) introduces young learners to the science of clouds through engaging activities, including songs, stories, art, and play. Students will have the opportunity to touch a cloud, learn about the power of the Sun, and discover the weight of a cloud.
For older students, Sky Sleuths: Inside Weather Data (Grades 3-5) provides a hands-on approach to understanding weather forecasting. Participants will explore how meteorologists gather weather data from around the world and use supercomputers to generate forecasts that help keep communities safe. Students will step into the role of meteorologists by collecting real weather data outside the NSF NCAR classroom, then graphing and analyzing their findings.
At the middle and high school levels, Engineering for Climate Change: A Severe Weather Design Challenge (Grades 6-12) encourages students to think like engineers, inventors, and designers. With climate change increasing the frequency of extreme weather, this program challenges students to develop innovative solutions to protect communities. Through creative problem-solving and teamwork, participants will construct structures designed to withstand severe weather while learning how researchers at NSF NCAR apply engineering principles to real-world climate challenges.
With free programs for all ages, the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) serves as a hub for scientific education, offering an enriching, out-of-classroom experience that brings Earth science to life. Whether your group is eager for hands-on activities—like touching clouds and tracking weather patterns—or prefers a leisurely exploration of the museum’s models and laboratories, NCAR provides a dynamic learning environment. Through interactive exhibits and expert-led programs, students gain valuable insights into the natural forces shaping our planet. By fostering curiosity and discovery, NCAR inspires the next generation of scientists, engineers, and climate researchers.
