When Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong landed on the moon in 1969, and Armstrong took his first steps on the moon’s surface, his words, “One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind,” became an instant quotable for years to come. This famous moment in world history would not have been possible had Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin never become astronauts in the first place. It was their passion for outer space that led them to this momentous occasion. For those individuals who share this passion and wish to follow in the “footsteps” of these two great men, Space Camp can provide “one small step” toward that goal of becoming the next great space explorer.  

 

The Community Foundation provides an annual opportunity for those wishing to attend Space Camp, via the Lucile M. Wright Air Museum “Space Camp” Scholarship. While the scholarship is generally awarded to younger individuals, it is also available to all those, adults included, that have a strong understanding of and passion for space and science. The deadline to apply for the 2007 Space Camp Scholarship is November 15.  

 

The specific criteria to be eligible for the Space Camp Scholarship is as follows: Applicants must be at least in 4^th grade through adults, have at least a ‘B’ average in math and science, have an understanding of the solar system, and have an interest in space travel, aeronautics, and science. In addition to an application form, applicants are required to submit a typed, one-page essay, outlining why you wish to attend Space Camp, your personal interests and hobbies, extracurricular activities, and other information relative to your goals. 

 

Space Camp, which is located in Huntsville, Alabama, offers experiences, education, and fun of a lifetime for those interested in space travel, science, or those with dreams of becoming astronauts. The camp is one week and takes place during the summer months. The Space Camp Scholarship helps fund participation expenses related to attending Space Camp. Once at the Camp, participants gain a new level of knowledge and experience needed to help pursue a potential career path related to aeronautics or space travel. Additionally, the hands-on approach of Space Camp allows participants to gain this knowledge through practical activities that make the educational aspect fun and exciting. Some of the many activities that occur during the five-day program include: Simulated shuttle and moonwalk missions, rocket building and launches, scientific experiments, and lectures on the history and future of space exploration. For more information about Space Camp go to: www.spacecamp.com.

 

If you have a strong background in science and are passionate about outer space, then Space Camp might be a great opportunity to learn more about that passion. If you are interested in applying for the Space Camp Scholarship, contact the Community Foundation at 661-3390 or download the application at www.crcfonline.org. The deadline for application is November 15, soget your application in on time. Use this opportunity as your “small step” to what might become a great career in science, aeronautics, or space exploration!