When COVID-19 caused the cancellation of the Delaware North-operated Kennedy Space Center's annual summer camp, a virtual event was introduced to offer science, technology, engineering and math activities.
The virtual camp – which costs US $65 for three three-hour sessions, connects elementary school-age children with a member of the KSCVC education staff via a real-time Zoom videoconference.
Ahead of the camp, the visitor complex mails campers a kit with materials they will need to complete the activities and experiences centered around NASA-based science.
The sessions focus on three main topics: the Apollo and Artemis moon programs, the mission challenges of the Space Shuttle Program and the International Space Station, and virtually traveling to Mars to learn the skills needed to settle on the red planet.
The results have been impressive.
Overall, more than 1,500 campers registered for the summer sessions, with the first sessions selling out.
The camp has drawn children from 44 states, Washington, D.C., and 10 other countries: Bangladesh, Canada, France, Chile, Colombia, Great Britain, Mexico, Switzerland, Trinidad and Tobago, and the United Arab Emirates.
A computer with the free Zoom Client for Meetings program and internet access is required to participate.
Campers of the same household do not need separate Zoom access codes to participate in Virtual Camp KSC, and additional camp kits are available for an additional US $25 per kit.
Virtual Camp KSC will continue over the holiday break this month. Those looking to register for the next camp session can do so on the visitor complex website.
"We’re excited about this new opportunity for kids to learn, and explore, at home."
Virtual Camp KSC will continue over the holiday break this month.
Those looking to register for the next camp session can do so on the visitor complex website.
