The McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center has kicked off a new Stars of Summer program from now until Labor Day to give families all sorts of indoor and outdoor adventures. The Discovery Center is now open seven days a week through Sept. 2, with the exception of the 4th of July. From camps to shows, to programs, there is something for everyone. Stars of Summer highlights include:
New Planetarium show “Perfect Little Planet.” Imagine the ultimate space vacation! Discover our solar system through a new set of eyes – a family from another star system seeking the perfect vacation spot. Fly over the surface of Pluto, our best-known dwarf planet. Dive over the ice cliffs of Miranda. Sail through the rings of Saturn. Feel the lightning storms of Jupiter. And walk on the surface of Mars. Which destination would you choose? A solar system journey for space travelers of all ages. Premieres July 5.
•Space Voyagers. Venture into the final frontier and discover what space travel is all about! What is life like aboard a space shuttle? How is it different from life here on Earth – how is it similar? Explore these questions and more as you voyage into the great beyond through hands-on activities designed for the youngest of astronauts. For ages 5-7. July 2-3 and 5-6, 9-11:30 a.m. or July 30-Aug. 3, 9-11 a.m. Rates through June 29: $125 for first child in family, $100 for each additional child. After June 29: $145 for first child in family, $120 for each additional child.
Super Stellar Friday: The Violent Storms of Summer. WMUR meteorologist Kevin Skarupa brings us on a journey to look at past New Hampshire weather and compares it to the very active weather we have had in the last six years. What has been up with our weather patterns and what causes the violent storms of summer? What might our future storms look like? In addition, join in outdoor telescope viewing beginning at dusk with the New Hampshire Astronomical Society, weather permitting. July 6 at 7 p.m.
Rocket Adventure Camp Rocket your way to the stars with this explosive summer camp that brings out the engineer in all of us. Your rocketeer will explore how rockets are built through various types of models – then make them soar! How high will they go? How does their design affect their flight? Phil Chouinard, a firefighter by trade, will inspire the rocket scientists of the future as the secrets of rocketry are revealed. Planetarium experiences are also included. Applicable towards Boy Scout Space Exploration merit badge. July 9-13, 9 a.m.-noon. For ages 8 and up. Rates through June 29: $175 for first child in family, $150 for each additional child. After June 29: $195 for first child in family, $170 for each additional child.
Super Stellar Friday: Teen Night: Remote Control Aircraft. The New Hampshire Flying Misfits will perform thrilling demonstrations and present interactive instruction on remote-controlled aircraft. Learn how they fly, are controlled, and use an RC flight simulator. Find out how you can get started with RC aircraft and even become a club member. (The program can be run indoors with smaller “indoor” aircraft if the weather is not good for outdoor flying.) Join educator Mal Cameron as we travel to the moon and back on Apollo 11. July 13, 7 p.m.
The Discovery Center will also be offering exciting stage shows, craft activities for kids, and other fun activities for all ages throughout the summer.
The McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center is a lively educational science center. It features 21 st century interactive exhibits on aviation, astronomy, and Earth and space sciences, a state-of-the-art planetarium and a variety of engaging programs. For more information, visit starhop.com.
