Summer Camps For Kids

Written By: Luke Osteen | Issue: April 2025

For decades, the Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute has been illuminating the mysteries of the cosmos.

It’s now offering its expertise and resources to reveal those mysteries to young explorers through a set of summer camps.

“Unleash your curiosity of the unknown when you retreat to a dark sky oasis where the stars are innumerable and beckon overhead,” says PARI’s Laura Galloway.

“The summer of 2025 will begin PARI’s 24th summer camp season. PARI campers have a strong tradition of going on to pursue careers inspired by the challenges they took on at a PARI summer camp. Whether this will be your first time, or you’re a returning camper, we have a great season planned with engaging guest educators and speakers and a team of experienced staff who will share their experiences in the field of space science.”

Above and Beyond, July 7 – July 18; Best for campers entering grades 9-12

Above and Beyond is PARI’s signature camping experience designed to immerse high school students in the world of space science and research while building confidence and critical thinking skills.

Originally developed in partnership with Duke University and refined for over two decades, this space camp explores the universe through astronomy, physics, and astrobiology, while also providing time for adventure and fun.

“From the impact of stars on the planets in their systems, to the composition of atmospheres and regolith, we’ll present the tools to answer a myriad of questions that could one day help humanity spread beyond Earth,” says Galloway.

Mission Control 3D Planets Camp, July 20 – July 25; Best for campers entering grades 6-9

Come explore other worlds with us and learn to 3D model and print volcanos, craters, rifts, and more from the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

Campers learn how to access and use data collected by spacecraft about the surface of other planets and moons.

“Campers will use hands-on models, computer software, 3D printers, and real NASA provided data to conduct their research and produce their models,” says Galloway. “Our large radio telescopes will be used to demonstrate and understand how the data that spacecraft and satellites collect is transmitted to Earth and collected so it can be used.

“These camps have generous scholarships available for North Carolina campers,” says Galloway. “Please contact us to see about receiving one for your camper at pari.edu/camps/summer-camps.”