*As of June 27, there are 9 spots remaining in the 5/6 grade camp; the 7/8 grade camp is full.
Parents of students in rising grades 5–8 can register now for Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory’s Space Science summer camp. Camp for grades 5–6 will be July 10–14, and grades 7–8 will be July 17–21, with activities from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.*
Apply now at dyer.vanderbilt.edu.
The focus of the camp is astronomy and space science. Campers learn how scientists discover the secrets of the universe—from exotic black holes to the nature of light. The camp curriculum has been created by an expert team of astronomy professionals, space scientists and area science teachers.
The camp supports the curiosity of students who are serious about exploring the worlds of science, math and technology, and it presents career possibilities in these fields. Campers are inspired by live demonstrations, hands-on activities and interacting with astronomers who are respected researchers and seasoned instructors. Participation in group activities builds self-confidence, problem-solving ability and social skills.
The highlight of the week is a journey to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, for a daylong adventure. Other past camp activities have included:
- Interacting with cutting-edge research astronomers
- Learning how telescopes work and building your own
- Safely viewing the dynamic surface of the sun through a solar telescope and attending a nighttime telescope viewing
- Learning about basic electronics and using the knowledge to build working projects
- Constructing a functioning model of the Hubble Space Telescope
- Making realistic models of comets and learning how craters are formedDesigning and launching bottle rockets as an introduction to rocketry
The cost of the camp is $350 per camper. Merit scholarships are not awarded, but financial aid is available to families who demonstrate financial need.
*The Wednesday field trip to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center is approximately 7 a.m.–5 p.m., and all expenses are included in camp fees.
The camp takes place at Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory, 1000 Oman Drive, Brentwood TN. The observatory is off of Granny White Pike, approximately 1/3 mile north of Old Hickory Boulevard; Dyer Observatory is not on the main Vanderbilt campus.
Contact Billy Teets, camp director, at william.k.teets@vanderbilt.edu, or call 615-373-4897 for more information.
