The San Antonio Museum of Science and Technology (SAMSAT) and the San Antonio Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics Connectery (SASTEMIC) are collaborating on a summer program featuring science, technology, engineering, and mathematics-themed STEM-based classes.
All classes will be at SAMSAT, which is located on 102 Mabry Drive on Port San Antonio’s campus. Each week-long camp features experts teaching the particular topic and opportunities for students to gain hands-on learning experience.
Registration opens April 1. The cost for each week-long class is $300 which includes all materials, plus daily breakfast and lunch. Assistance for families meeting requirements for financial need is available on a first-come basis. Register for camps (add your request for assistance in the notes section) at www.samsat.org/camps.
Topics covered range from crime scene investigation (CSI), telecommunications, aerospace, robotics, and filmmaking, to cybersecurity defense and breaking codes.
Cyberdefender students will learn about cryptology and the development of encryption and cybersecurity. Students will gain an understanding of digital defense mechanisms and have the opportunity to defend virtual computers against hacking.
Students in the space camp will be given an overview of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) program, the International Space Station, and efforts to colonize Mars. A visiting NASA astrophysicist will talk about his work and students will try some astronaut training and launch their own model rocket.
The communication weeklong class will provide campers a history of different transmission devices, from the telegraph to cellphones. Students also get to see demonstrations of concepts in optical and digital communication and see how an Enigma encryption machine works.
Be sure to apply early as each class size is limited. Registration and complete listings of all summer classes can be found at www.samsat.org/camps.
