event Published 2026-10-09 14:55:47.074 +0000 UTC
Keenan, a student at Glenforest Secondary School, ranked first in Canada and placed among the top five per cent of participants worldwide in the International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition (IAAC), earning a national award and a silver honour certificate. More than 9,000 students participated in the annual three-round competition.
Keenan’s journey began with the online Qualification Round on May 4, where he tackled problems involving solar eclipses, low Earth orbit, distances to celestial bodies and the theory of relativity. After carefully documenting his proofs, methods and answers, he earned a place in the teacher-supervised pre-final round on June 15.
To prepare for the more demanding second round, Keenan studied a research paper on the emergence of young star clusters from their natal clouds. During the handwritten, supervised test, he applied trigonometry to calculate stellar distances and analyzed planetary habitable zones using albedo and luminosity. His strong score advanced him to the final round.
On July 6, Keenan completed the final multiple-choice and short-answer exam at Hazel McCallion Library. Through independent study, careful preparation and support from his physics teacher, he finished first in Canada and among the top five per cent of participants worldwide.
“Being able to join a competition like this was my dream,” Keenan said. “It really boosted my confidence and was something I’ll definitely relish for the rest of my life.”
Keenan has explored physics since Grade 4 through presentations and projects on topics including the multiverse, quantum mechanics, radiation, antimatter and charge-parity-time violation. In Grade 10, he also wrote a particle physics book for younger students. These experiences helped build the knowledge, curiosity, and confidence that contributed to his success in the competition.
His mother, Archana Johnson, encouraged him throughout the experience. “Always aim for perfection; either you’ll achieve excellence, or you’ll actually accomplish perfection,” she said.
Principal Fraser Kidd congratulated Keenan on his achievement: “Keenan is an excellent representative of the Glenforest school community. We are excited to work with him and can’t wait to see what his future holds!”
Physics teacher Vicki Weafer shared her reaction to Keenan’s achievement. “I was impressed by Keenan’s initiative and enthusiasm throughout the IAAC competition process. I was excited and happy for Keenan to learn that he placed first in Canada. It’s an accomplishment to be seriously proud of!”
Keenan hopes his experience will encourage other students who are interested in astronomy or physics to explore similar opportunities. Students do not need a formal research background to begin. Curiosity, disciplined study, and the courage to try can open the door to new possibilities.