Make a Gift         Invest in AURA         Sharing the wonders of our Universe within our communities and schools is deeply embedded in AURA’s mission. Over the past 50 years, research conducted at AURA astronomical observatories has led to many major discoveries about our planet, our solar system and our Universe. These discoveries have transformed our understanding of our world. Through our public and educational outreach efforts we bring this wonderment to our public schools and libraries. The Visitor Centers at AURA observatories draw thousands each year. Our research experiences for students and teachers have inspired the next generation of astronomers. We want to continue to expand the reach of our efforts. AURA is funded exclusively by grants and contracts with the federal government and our access to resources to fund existing and create new programs is very limited. We need your help to maintain and expand our educational outreach, facilities and provide opportunities for students in need to fuel the future of exploration of our universe.   Click the appropriate "Donate" button below to send your tax-deductible contribution.       Friends of AURA - General fund to advance public understanding of Astronomy.     Friends of NOAO - For those who have benefitted from Kitt Peak and CTIO and those who share our vision of public Astronomy, to provide support for students and enhance their research careers.     Friends of NSO - For those who have benefitted from the National Solar Observatory's facilities at Sac Peak and Kitt Peak, to provide support for students and enhance their research careers.     Friends of Space Telescope Science Institute - For those who share the excitement of the Hubble Space Telescope and the major contributions it has made to science and society, to provide support for students and public outreach.     Friends of Gemini - For those who share our vision of exploring the universe and sharing its wonders through Gemini, to provide support for students and public outreach.                     © 2010 Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy, Inc.