Smithsonian Student Travel | Student Journey | Washington, D.C. & Houston
Delve into the world of aerospace engineering and space exploration on this high school summer program as you travel from Washington, D.C., to Houston, Texas, home to NASA’s Johnson Space Center. Begin with a visit to Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum and the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center to deepen your understanding of the history of flight and modern technology. Take an overnight trip to Shenandoah National Park, construct and launch your own rockets, and study the night sky away from city lights. In Houston, talk to aeronautic specialists, NASA experts, astronomers, and engineers to learn about the experiments being conducted on the International Space Station. Immerse yourself in the cutting-edge technologies being used and developed today as you consider the implications of space travel and the challenges and benefits of exploring even further.
Highlights
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Learn about aerodynamics, then build and launch your own rocket
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Debate the merits and challenges of privatized space exploration
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Visit the Johnson Space Center, home of the ISS’s Mission Control
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Meet NASA scientists who are at the forefront of space exploration
Itinerary
This itinerary represents our best projection of the group’s schedule. However, we may implement changes designed to improve the quality of the program.
Departure ● Travel Day
Washington, D.C. ● 6 days
Begin your journey in Washington, D.C., and dive right into the history and modern wonders of flight and space exploration at Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum and the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. Meet with industry pioneers, interview local experts, discuss pertinent topics regarding women in the profession, and deepen your understanding about what motivates humans to venture into outer space. Learn about the past, present, and future of the politics surrounding space exploration in discussions with legislators and historians. Visit monuments in Washington, D.C., and explore the diverse foods and flavors of the city’s restaurant scene.
Shenandoah National Park ● 2 days
Houston ● 5 days
As the program concludes, wrap up your independent project to share with your group and celebrate your time together.
Return ● Travel Day
What to Expect
Physical Activity
Accommodations
Climate
Meals
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