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Space Camp available to Andersen Youth

  • Published
  • By Airman Carissa Wolff
  • 36th Wing Public Affairs
Andersen's youth program is offering children an opportunity to attend Space Camp in Huntsville, Ala., from July 26 through Aug. 1 for free.

The camp normally costs $900 to attend. The deadline to apply is May 4.

Considering the fast approaching deadline, Daniel Aflleje, 36th Force Support Squadron Teen Center coordinator, said Space Camp is a great opportunity and students should consider applying soon before time runs out.

The camp offers two specific age groups. Space Camp is for youth 12- to 14-years-old; Advanced Space Camp is for youth 15- to 18-years-old.

While at Space Camp, youth interact through space shuttle mission simulations, tours of the center and the chance to witness firsthand the everyday challenges faced by astronauts, according to www.afyouthprograms.com.

"This program is open to family members of active duty military members assigned to or living on an Air Force installation, Air Force retired military members, Air Force civilian employees or activated Air National Guard or Air Force Reserve members," Mr. Aflleje said.

Children interested in Space Camp must have a 2.8 grade point average, fill out the admission form and submit it to their local youth program. The youth program staff will interview applicants to decide whether to forward the application to the program.

"If an application is sent to the Space Camp program, it will then go through final approval which determines whether the applicant may go to Space Camp," Mr. Aflleje said. "Youth may only participate in Space Camp once unless applying for Advanced Space Camp."

Also, while the camp itself is free and provides meals and lodging for attendees, the applicant must provide travel to and from the camp.

For more information or to apply to space camp, visit www.afyouthprograms.com or call Daniel Aflleje at 366-7706.