CCM Launches First NASA Astro Camp® for Middle School Students CCM Launches First NASA Astro Camp® for Middle School Students

Free Space-Themed Summer Camp Invites Grades 6–8 to Explore Engineering and Lunar Missions

Middle school students will have the opportunity to reach for the stars this summer as County College of Morris (CCM) hosts its first NASA Astro Camp® on campus. Designed for students in grades 6 through 8, the free, four-day camp will immerse participants in hands-on engineering challenges and space exploration activities inspired by real-world missions.

The camp will take place starting Monday, June 29 through Thursday, July 2 from 1 to 4 p.m. in CCM’s Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Center (AMEC). Through interactive projects, students will explore the science and engineering behind space travel while tackling lunar mission challenges that encourage teamwork, creativity and problem-solving.

“As America celebrates 250 years of independence and innovation, CCM’s Department of Engineering Technologies and Engineering Science invites students to see themselves as the next chapter in that story,” said Assistant Professor Preethi Ganapathy, who is leading the program. “The same spirit of curiosity and courage that shaped our nation now drives space exploration. Through hands-on engineering and lunar mission challenges, our campers won’t just learn about history — they’ll help imagine the next 250 years of discovery.”

The program is offered at no cost and is limited to 40 participants to ensure a personalized, engaging learning experience. Students must register by May 1, and early registration is encouraged as space is expected to fill quickly. Visit https://www.ccm.edu/events/astro-camp/. For questions, contact Laura Murray, administrative coordinator, department of Engineering Technologies and Engineering Science at lmurray@ccm.edu or 973-328-5760.

Through offering this camp, CCM continues its commitment to create early pathways into high-demand fields such as engineering. For more information, visit https://www.ccm.edu/pathways/engineering-advanced-manufacturing/.