The Fairborn Institute, a non-profit 501 (c) (3), founded in 2000, is a direct descendent of the Fairborn Observatory, which was founded in 1979. The Institute focuses on published astronomical research, most often in collaboration with student research teams. The Institute works closely with Gila Community College and the Institute for Student Astronomical to assist student teams conducting published research. Many of the students who have participated in the Institute’s research have received scholarships thanks to their coauthored publications.