MSEC Summer Camp
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Section Navigation: Mason Space Exploration Center
Mason Space Exploration Center
- Description
- Have a question about Summer Camp? Reach out to us here!
- Phone Number
- Address
Attn: Mason Space Center
GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY
4400 UNIVERSITY DR STOP 3F3
PLANETARY HALL 243
FAIRFAX, VA 22030-4444 US
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Ignite Your Child’s Curiosity at the Mason Space Exploration Center Camp!
Our camp will inspire the next generation to launch their curiosity and creativity about space. At the Mason Space Exploration Center camp, your child will dive into expert-guided fun and engaging hands-on STEM activities. Campers will be exploring topics including:
- Programming and electronics with Arduino
- Mathematics and the physics of motion and gravity
- Creating a scale model of the Solar System
- Touring the 2nd largest on-campus Observatory on the East Coast
- Visiting a small-sat development lab and radio dish
- Using a Solar Telescope
...And much more. Join us for an adventure that will spark a lifelong passion for science and exploration.
New to this year is the satellite location at the George Mason SciTech Campus.More details regarding the SciTech sessions will be posted at a later time.
Get added to the waitlist for Summer 2025 here!
Blast off to Adventure
Grade Levels:
- Base Camp is appropriate for rising fourth and fifth graders.
- Advanced Camp is appropriate for rising sixth through eighth graders.
- For rising high schoolers, we recommend the Aspiring Scholars Summer Internship Program (ASSIP). Our observatory has partnered with them in the past, and many disciplines are available.
- Permission required via email for students outside these grade levels.
- Camp capacity is generally limited to 30 students per week.
Price:
- $500 per week*, including $100 worth of take-home materials.
Camp Schedule:
- Dropoff: 8:45 to 9:15 a.m.
- Pickup: 3:45 to 4:15 p.m.
Weekly Space Mission:
- Monday: Countdown and launch.
- Tuesday: Explore the mysteries of the Moon.
- Wednesday: Discover the secrets of Mars.
- Thursday: Investigate the icy moons of Jupiter.
- Friday: Unveil the wonders of Saturn’s icy moons.
Each day is packed with thrilling STEM challenges and unexpected surprises, ensuring an educational and exhilarating experience. Our unique program encourages teamwork and leadership, as students are grouped into six teams of up to five, each taking on different mission roles. For students attending multiple weeks, we recommend embracing a new mission role each week for a diverse and enriching experience.
Why Choose Our Camp?
- Hands-On STEM Learning: Engaging STEM activities that ignite curiosity and foster a love for science.
- Teamwork and Leadership: Small teams and rotating roles promote collaboration and leadership skills.
- Expert Instructors: Guided by experienced educators passionate about space and science.
Secure your child’s spot in our Space Exploration Camp today and give them a summer filled with adventure, learning, and fun.
*Session 1 available at discounted rate due to abridged schedule.
2025 Sessions & Availability
Base Camp:
Session # | Start Date | End Date | Camper Positions Available |
Session 1 | June 16 | June 20 | 60 |
Session 2 | June 23 | June 27 | 60 |
Session 3 | July 7 | July 11 | 60 |
Session 4 | July 14 | July 18 | 60 |
Advanced Camp:
Session # | Start Date | End Date | Camper Positions Available |
Session 5 | July 21 | July 25 | 60 |
Session 6 | July 28 | August 1 | 60 |
Session 7 | August 4 | August 8 | 60 |
As of now, the Summer 2025 Waitlist is open! Please use the TouchNet portal to confirm interest. We will continue to update you as our availability changes. Please note that Session 1 is a 4-day week, as we will not be holding camp on the Juneteenth (June 19) Federal Holiday.
- Camp Center at Exploratory Hall
10431 Rivanna River Way, Fairfax, VA 22030
- Directions to Exploratory Hall