Support Astronomy at UVa

If you are interested in supporting the research, education or public outreach missions of the Department of Astronomy, there are several ways you can do so.

Unrestricted Gifts to the Department of Astronomy

You may make an unrestricted gift to the Department of Astronomy, to support our research and education mission, by visiting this link.

Public Outreach Program

You can support the Public Outreach mission of the Department in the following areas.

Friends of McCormick Observatory Program

A non-profit membership organization to promote and support the education and public outreach activities of the Department of Astronomy. Members are eligible for a number of benefits.

Dark Skies, Bright Kids

There are many ways that you can support the innovative Dark Skies, Bright Kids program. Please visit this link to find out more about contributing to this volunteer-run program working to enhance science education for elementary school students at underserved schools in rural Virginia

Heidi Winter Endowment Fund

for Education and Public Outreach Programs of the McCormick Observatory

The income earned by this endowment will provide a "permanent source of support for the exceptional educational programs of the McCormick Observatory, will enable the Observatory to expand its educational and outreach programs, and will ensure that the Observatory remains a resource for students and the public for years to come." This fund was created through the efforts of the friends and colleagues of Heidi Winter at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, the College of Arts and Sciences, and the Department of Astronomy. To make a gift, please visit this link.

If you would prefer to send a check, rather than use a credit card on on-line, please make the check out to the Heidi Winter Endowment and mail it to

The College Foundation
PO Box 400801
Charlottesville, VA 22904-4801
attention:  Cindy La Varra