MSU to host free NASA camp for middle schoolers

MSU News Service

BOZEMAN — Montana State University’s Academic Technology and Outreach will host a free, five-day summer camp for middle school students who are interested in science, technology, engineering and math.

MSU Explore: Earth and Science Space Camp, which will be held July 21-26 on campus, will introduce students to STEM careers and role models. Participants will receive a firsthand look at college life through daily classes and evening activities. Applications are due by April 26. Two adult recommendations are required.

The camp is hosted by MSU Academic Technology and Outreach in collaboration with NASA Science Mission Directorate Education and the Northwest Earth and Space Sciences Pipeline program. Organizers are encouraging applications from students who have not had the opportunity to attend a university program or STEM camp before, including those who would be first-generation college students, those in low-income families or communities or those who live in rural areas where fewer STEM opportunities are available.

Participants will live in MSU residence halls and choose three classes to attend. Class topics that can be covered range from building and launching rockets to protecting Montana’s rivers and forests, discovering indigenous science and exploring black holes.

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing, several special classes will be offered. The classes will allow participants to program drones and Lego robots to mimic the landing or learn about the geology of the moon by making craters. Evening activities will include sports, movies and social events.

For more information on the camp or to apply, visit http://ato.montana.edu/explore or contact Debbie Albin at [email protected] or 994-1907.