Hunter Hansman, of Denison, takes a mighty leap before powering his Stomp Rocket skyward, using the air he is about to stomp out of the pop bottle on the ground. His brother, Conner (in green shirt) is among the NASA Astro Campers waiting in line. *Photos by Gordon Wolf*

On Tuesday, local youth worked toward an understanding of space exploration at the NASA Astro Camp hosted by the Iowa State University Extension Crawford County office.

The camp members powered their own rockets, floated Mars helicopters off into space, and engineered launching towers.

The purpose of the Astro Camp Community Partners is to provide NASA’s unique STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) engagement activities and experiences to youth, families and educators in their own communities.

The campers were involved in the following activities throughout the day.

Reviewed what is known about space
Learned about galaxies and solar systems and took part in an activity to show just how big our solar system is
Designed their own mission patches
Created cosmic art
Engineered and built towers using index cards and minimal tape, while employing these steps: imagine, plan, create, improve and ask
Crafted helicopters to learn about the flying power of the Mars helicopter
Learned about propulsion through the making and launching of “Stomp Rockets”

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**Youth watch as their helicopters twirl their way to the floor.**

Following are goals of Astro Camp.

To inspire youth, families, and educators to explore the realms of space and science, technology, engineering and mathematics, increasing and sustaining youth and public engagement through authentic NASA STEM experiences.
Present nationally-aligned math and science principles – based on NASA missions, current and past – through fun, hands-on activities that teach teams of youth to work together
Integrate NASA’s unique resources and expertise through exposure with prepared educational materials, presentations, and connections to NASA scientists, astronauts, and engineers.
Inform campers about the most current NASA missions focusing on human explorations in space, targeting the return to the Moon and on to Mars.
Spark all students’ interest in learning the unique basics of NASA Earth and space science, technology applications, engineering, rocketry, robotics, and computer science, focusing program outreach to historically under-served and under-represented groups
Track the increase and quality of STEM learning opportunities with exposure to NASA STEM career possibilities for the future while having fun.