Mount Washington Observatory receives $50,000 grant for STEM education

February 1, 2026 - 01:30

A significant boost for science education is coming to one of the nation's most extreme environments. The Mount Washington Observatory has been awarded a $50,000 grant to fund and expand its innovative STEM programming for students.

The funding, provided through the Citizens Bank Champions in Action program, is specifically dedicated to creating hands-on educational experiences. These initiatives will leverage the observatory's unique position atop the Northeast's highest peak, where scientists study severe weather and climate. The programs aim to bring complex meteorological and environmental concepts to life for learners.

The grant will enable students to engage directly with real-world scientific research and data collection methods used by the observatory's staff. By moving beyond textbooks, the observatory hopes to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and informed citizens. This investment underscores the growing importance of making STEM fields accessible and exciting through direct interaction and unique, immersive learning opportunities. The observatory's programs are expected to reach a broad range of students, fostering a deeper understanding of atmospheric science and the changing environment.