Dyer Observatory is accepting applications to its weeklong summer astronomy camps for middle-schoolers this year. Camp activities will include presentations, experiments and other hands-on activities developed by astronomy professors, space scientists and science teachers. Weather permitting, campers and parents will also be invited to the observatory one evening during the camp session for a viewing through the Seyfert telescope.
There are two sessions available for rising 5th and 6th graders: July 8-12 and July 15-19. Activities will include working with electronics, designing Martian and lunar landers, experimenting with lasers, and participating in telescope control and observations.
There is one session for rising 7th and 8th graders July 22-26. Activities will include experiments with lasers, cryogenics, electromagnetism and telescopes, as well as a field trip to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Ala., for a specially guided tour and exciting hands-on lab experiences.
Camp begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 3 p.m. each day. Campers may arrive as early as 8:30 a.m. and may remain until 3:15 p.m. Snacks will be provided, but campers should pack a lunch and bring a drink. Tuition is $285, payable by check to Vanderbilt University. An application is required.