Summer Student Programming

Students with their models of the Hubble Space Telescope

This summer, Dyer Observatory is excited to offer a new lineup of engaging programs for a wide range of ages! These half-day and full-day activities will feature some of our most popular summer camp projects along with brand-new experiences focused on astronomy and space science.

While we are not hosting our traditional summer camps for rising 5th through 8th graders this year, our expanded programming continues our decades-long tradition of inspiring curiosity through science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM).

Activities

Image

Telescopes & Technology

Ages:  Rising grades 5-8

Date:  July 11, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

Explore how telescopes work, build a functional small-scale model of the world-renowned Hubble Space Telescope, and get an introduction to micro-electronics and programming. Participants of the day-long workshop will also receive an Arduino microcontroller kit to take home to continue creating projects using the skills learned at Dyer.

  • Additional Details

    While at Dyer Observatory, student participants will be immersed in the world of astronomy as they work among Dyer's unique exhibits and historic instruments.  The park-like setting of our hilltop, often dotted with deer and turkeys, provides a serene venue that welcomes our visitors to create a truly unique summer programming experience!

    During this day-long workshop, students will explore the world of telescopes and learn how they work, including a visit to Dyer’s historic Seyfert Telescope. Students will then learn about the Hubble Space Telescope and build a 1/12 scale model. To make the models extra realistic, students will be introduced to the world of micro-electronics and programming and will incorporate their own electronic components (including microcontrollers, motors, solar panels, transceivers, and cameras) into the Hubble models. 

    Students will also work together in small groups (2-3 students) with a group leader, providing them important opportunities to strengthen their team-building and collaboration skills and ensuring all students are engaged as an important part of their team.  If time permits, participants may have the opportunity to view through Dyer's historic 24" Seyfert Telescope! 

    To further inspire, students will receive their own Arduino microcontroller kit to to take home to continue creating their own projects with the skills they learn in the workshop.

    Financial Assistance

    Limited financial assistance is available. Please submit a request to dyerobservatory@vanderbilt.edu. You will be contacted within 2 business days and further instructions including how to register will be provided.

Registration

Register now to join us for our half-day or full-day summer sessions filled with fun, learning and discovery.