Rocketry – Space Trek

Build. Launch. Inspire.

Join us for a camp filled with thrilling discoveries, hands-on experiments, and a memorable water rocket activity. From Gunpowder to Space Vehicles: Embark on a journey through the history and evolution of rockets from humble gunpowder beginnings to the mighty space vehicles that carry humanity into the cosmos today.

Rocket Science for Everyone!

Introduction to Rocketry: Our program provides an exciting platform for your students to explore the basics of rocketry and the physics that propel these incredible machines into space.

Build your own rocket: Working in teams, students will design and construct their very own water rocket, using custom-designed parts crafted in our state-of-the-art fabrication lab.

Innovate like NASA scientists: Team members work together with roles that simulate positions on a small-scale NASA launch team.

Become a Rocket Scientist...

Test rockets with B.E.T.A.: Student teams collect both theoretical and experimental data for their rockets inside a classroom. The Bottle-rocket Engine Test Apparatus (BETA) uses a force sensor coupled with signal conditioning and sophisticated programming to collect data from the rocket’s engine. This is very similar to how NASA performs rocket engine testing.

Rocket Launch: Finally, teams compete to launch their rockets into specific orbits, without damaging the payload due to too much acceleration or impact. Team with the highest accuracy wins.

Camp Details

Rocket Construction and Design

Participants will design, build, and launch their own water rockets from start to finish. They’ll test how water volume, air pressure, fins, and nose cones affect stability and distance, then use real flight data to iterate and improve each launch.

Data Collection & Analysis

Students will use the data they collect to see how different variables influence rocket flight, then analyze the results to model and predict their rocket’s trajectory.

Math and Physics of Rocketry

Master the math and physics of projectile motion with us—then launch into flight.

Using Data in a Physical Experiment

Using insights from their data analysis, teams will tune multiple launch variables to hit a specific target objective—and compete to win the final launch challenge.

Theoretical and Experimental Data Collection

Students will use our state-of-the-art Bottle Engine Testing Apparatus (B.E.T.A.) to perform experiments and collect data to excel at the rocket launching challenge.

Teamwork

Teams must work together to succeed at the distance challenge, which is a culmination of all the experiments and learning throughout the three-day camp period.

All students, along with the experience of a lifetime, will receive certificates of excellence upon program completion. The winning team will receive medals commemorating their success.
In addition to class activities, all students will learn about the history of the U.S. space program and visit several attractions in the KSC Visitor Complex. Including the Space Shuttle Atlantis, Gateway, IMAX movies and other attractions based on camp duration.

Camp Schedules

2 day Schedule
3 day Schedule

Day 1

This day serves as an introduction to Space Trek and provides students with an engaging introduction to programming. Students will then learn the basics of their robot and be prompted to work on challenges. Exciting park activities will be included throughout the day with exhibits such as Gateway and IMAX movies.

Day 2

Inclusions

Mission instruction, materials, and guided build time
Team-based challenges, evaluations, and graduation recognition
All students, along with the experience of a lifetime, will receive certificates of excellence upon program completion. The winning team will receive medals commemorating their success.
Access to key KSC Visitor Complex learning experiences (subject to availability) – Shuttle Launch Experience, IMAX Movie Shows, The Explorer Bus Tour, access to various KSCVC exhibits, Shop at the biggest Space store.
Lunch & Snacks are included during the duration of the camp

Disclaimer: The schedule accommodates KSCVC activities, with adjustments based on group size and punctuality. While every effort is made to adhere to the schedule, activities may be altered or removed to ensure program timelines are maintained. Event times and availability are subject to change without notice.