February 8, 2023 |
The University of Wyoming is hosting the Windy Ridge Foundation Astro Camp for local middle schoolers in June.
Carbon County 7th and 8th graders are invited to apply to the University of Wyoming’s week-long space-themed camp this summer.
Twenty-four students will be chosen to spend seven days on the UW campus, staying in the dorms and eating in the school cafeteria. The Windy Ridge Foundation Astro Camp Director Dr. Daniel Dale said the kids will spend the entire time learning about science and engineering.
The Windy Ridge Foundation was founded be the estate of Harry C. Vaughan, a professor of meteorology at Iowa State University. After retiring from teaching, Vaughan moved to Laramie where he built an observatory in his backyard. Dr. Dale said the organization carries on Vaughan’s love of astronomy by financially contributing to educational programs.
In 2013, the Windy Ridge Foundation donated $875,000 to update the UW planetarium. The building was renamed in Vaughan’s honor.
At Astro Camp, students will experience many aspects of the engineering design process. Dr. Dale said the kids will get a taste of rocket science by launching model spacecraft.
Astro Camp wouldn’t be complete without learning about the formation of the universe. Dr. Dale said students spend time at the UW planetarium peering into the depths of space. Retired NASA astronaut Steve Smith will give a presentation to the students as well.
Not every activity is contained to the University of Wyoming campus. Dr. Dale said Astro Campers will explore the surrounding mountains and perform scientific experiments.
The Windy Ridge Foundation Astro Camp is open to students entering 7th and 8th grade and is 100 percent free to attend. To apply, students must write an essay about why they wish to attend Astro Camp and be recommended for the program by two different teachers. Parents must also present a copy of the student’s most recent report card.
Registration ends April 30th, but late applications may also be considered. The Astro Camp runs from June 18th to the 24th. Inquiries may be directed to Mr. Max Gilbraith at planetarium@uwyo.edu.
