Fifth Grade Field Study: Astrocamp

Each year, St. Mary's fifth graders participate in a five-day Astrocamp Field Study located on the Guided Discoveries campus, in Idyllwild, CA. While science is the focus of this study, its many programs expand learning across the entire curriculum. The goal of Astrocamp is to acquaint students through dynamic coursework in astronomy, physical science, space exploration, and adventure activities while having fun. Classes ranging from Newtonian Physics to Team Building are designed to inspire students toward future success in their academic and personal pursuits. The following are just a few of the programs that students will experience:

Astronaut Training
Using in microgravity, students attempt to build a mock satellite.

Daytime Astronomy
The planetarium is used to discuss constellations and myths. Through hands-on experiments, students are taught about solar radiation and energy.

Night Astronomy
This class finds students using sensory awareness games, hearing stories, stargazing and witnessing demonstrations of adaptation to darkness.

Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescopes
These high-tech telescopes help students view the beautiful night sky.

Rocketry Class
Students witness how force and the laws of motion work while they build rockets and then launch them using water and pressurized air.

Along with these and many other educational opportunities, students enjoy free time each day that allows for multiple recreational activities including swimming with trained lifeguards (when weather permits). For more information on this program, visit www.guideddiscoveries.org