Scout Programs at Kopernik Observatory
Kopernik Observatory invites Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts to explore the
universe and discover the wonders of science. Exciting programs include
evening, overnight, and merit badge programs. Scouts will be offered special
scientific activities along with telescopic observing (weather permitting).
The overnight programs feature an indoor sleepover or a campout on Kopernik
Observatory grounds. We are introducing a new program for Boy Scouts work on
scientific merit badges.
Basic Evening Programs
Boy Scouts or Cub Scouts receive a 1½ hour program lead by a Kopernik instructor. If attending on a Friday evening, they may join our regular Friday night public program free of charge. Activities include: astronomy presentations, light & lasers, making star finders, computer sky simulators, telescope tours, and telescope observing (weather permitting).
Friday evening Fee: $5.00/scout or a $75 minimum fee.
Fee at other times: $7.00/scout or a $100 minimum fee.
Submit an easy registration form (Boy Scouts) or call for reservations.
Submit an easy registration form (Cub Scouts) or call for reservations.
Basic Overnight Programs
Boy Scouts or Cub Scouts sleep over or camp out at the Kopernik Observatory! Receive a three hour program designed by the Kopernik staff with input from scout leaders. There are many scientific topics to choose from. Some of these topics may be applicable for merit badge work if desired (see below). Observe through our telescopes late into the night and wake up to a continental breakfast.
Fee:
$30/scout or sibling, $5/chaperone.
Submit an easy registration form (Boy Scouts) or call for reservations.
Submit an easy registration form (Cub Scouts) or call for reservations.
Boy Scout Merit Badge Program Overview
This is a three hour program for Boy Scouts only at the Kopernik Observatory with the possibility of an overnight sleepover/campout. We offer programs for the Astronomy, Space Exploration, Radio, and Photography merit badges. See the scout manuals for badge requirements. Scouts will use real scientific equipment in their merit badge work, including telescopes, digital and film cameras, a state of the art computer lab, and a working amateur (Ham) radio station. Scouts may build and launch rockets for the Space Exploration merit badge. Please contact Kopernik Observatory if you wish a program for other merit badges.
Fee:
Non-overnight: $12/scout or a $100 minimum fee. .
Overnight: $30/scout or sibling, $5/chaperone.
Submit an easy registration form (Boy Scouts) or call for reservations.
Some classes may have an additional materials usage fee.
We are happy to work with scout leaders to adapt our programs to their specific needs.
Boy Scout Merit Badge Program Descriptions
We offer merit badge programs in Astronomy, Space Exploration, Radio, and Photography.
Astronomy
You will automatically satisfy a major requirement of this badge (visit an observatory). Use our many professional telescopes to satisfy some requirements. Our experienced astronomy staff can help you explore the sky and understand how the equipment works. You will learn the facts needed for the badge questions.
Space Exploration
Our staff is very knowledgeable in manned space programs, unmanned programs sending space probes to the distant reaches of the solar system, and also in the various earth orbiting space vehicles. The staff will help you understand how rockets and satellites work. In addition, you will have the opportunity to build and launch your own rocket – a major requirement for this badge.
Radio
You will have the opportunity see and use our amateur radio station under the guidance of a licensed amateur radio operator. There is the possibility (conditions permitting) of talking to people around the globe. Satellites may be contacted and allow you to download images of what they are viewing. Staff people with a strong background in radio and engineering will help you learn the technical details required for this badge.
Photography
Kopernik Observatory has excellent facilities for photography including digital cameras and a state of the art computer lab with software to process your digital images. If you choose to use a film camera, we also have 35mm film cameras and even a darkroom to process film and print pictures. Our staff will help you understand this equipment, the software, and technical details required for the badge.
