Link Summer Science Explorations - 2008

Overview: For the sixteenth summer, the Kopernik Observatory & Science Education Center in Vestal, New York is offering weeklong science programs for young people in grades 3-12 as part of our Kopernik Talent Search. We also have an introductory program for students in grades 1 & 2. Sponsored by the Edwin A. and Marion C. Link Foundation in memory of inventor/explorer Ed Link, Link Summer Science Explorations introduces students to hands-on, high-tech science. The Kopernik Link Residential Institutes provide students the opportunity to learn about various aspects of astronomy. Professional grade instruments are used to study and learn about astronomical objects. Black and white photography as well as digital photography is used to record and preserve observations for further study and presentation. Residential students are housed on campus at Binghamton University and attend nighttime programs at Kopernik Observatory. Commuter options are available for the residential programs and include a program fee adjustment. Call for details. All students who are new to Kopernik Talent Search (except Link 5 level) are required to have a nomination form completed by a teacher.

Application, Nomination and Financial Assistance forms are available for download. Completed materials need to be returned by April 21, 2008 (later applications will be considered if space is available) Payment is not required at this time, payment information will be sent with your acceptance letter after the April 21 deadline. (Course Outlines on the Link Residential Programs are available upon request.)
 

Link 1 Residential Astronomy:
Mighty Jupiter and Beyond

(9th-12th graders—07/08 school year)
Students will use Kopernik’s telescopes, web cameras, and digital cameras to image Jupiter and its moons. Participants will explore how the solar system formed and the importance that the outer planets played. Emphasis will be on Jupiter since it will be at close approach on July 9, making a fantastic object to photograph. All students will use telescopes to accurately document Jupiter’s atmospheric bands and the positions of its moons. There will even be close examination of what happened to Jupiter when it was struck by Comet Shoemaker-Levy-9 and a field trip to Cornell’s Space Science Imaging Facility. Students may choose one-week or two-week institutes. Session A: July 6-12 and/or Session B: July 13–19 Fee: $885 (1 week) or $1670 (2 weeks) Commuter Option: $475 (See Overview above for Residential Institute Description)

 

Link 2 Residential Space Science:
Search for Life in the Universe

(Current 7th & 8th grade—07/08 school yr)
Is there evidence of life on Mars? Are we alone in the universe? Students will first investigate our solar system to discover places to look for life. Next they will look farther into space and explore other star systems to determine the probabilities of finding earthlike planets. Activities will include modeling planetary surfaces, analyzing the requirements for life, processing digital images, and learning micro-photography. All students will be trained in basic sky watching with binoculars and small telescopes. Students may choose one-week or two-week institutes. Session A: July 27-Aug 2 and/or Session B: Aug 3-9. Fee: $785 (1 week) or $1470 (2 weeks) Commuter Option: $425 (See Overview above for Residential Institute Description)

 

Link 3 Earth Science:
Volcano Hunt-Are you up for the adventure?  

(Current 5th & 6th graders—07/08 school year)
Go on a volcano hunt and other adventures in an in-depth study of the history of the earth. Activities include a field trip to a nearby park for a fossil, erosion and stream studies, digital photography, GPS treasure hunting, Pangaea model building and much more. Session A: July 21-25 or Session B: Aug 11-15, 9AM-3PM; Non-Member Fee: $198 (Kopernik Observatory Member Fee: $168)

 

Link 4 Junior Astronomers:
All About Space

(Current 3rd & 4th graders—07/08)
Modern astronomy began in 1610 when Galileo observed the heavens with his small telescope. Today astronomy is the most popular science for young people. This course will introduce students to the wonders of space from constellations to black holes. Activities include: making star finders, making and using planispheres, creating planetary models, and building simple telescope. Session A: July 14-18 or Session B: Aug 4-8, 9AM-3PM; Non-Member Fee: $198 (Kopernik Observatory Member Fee: $168)

Link 5 Young Scientists:
Super Science Explorers

(Current 1st & 2nd graders—07/08 school year)
All great scientists began as kids who loved exploring the world around them. Kopernik’s science explorers will experience a dazzling array of hands-on activities. Your child will make gliders, build electric circuits, experiment with liquids and make dinosaur fossils as they learn how to measure, sketch and make computer images. Session A: July 7-11 or Session B: July 28-August 1, 9AM-3PM; Non-Member Fee: $198 (Kopernik Observatory Member Fee: $168)

 

For a Summer Science Financial Assistance Form click here (PDF 19 KB)

 

Please call (607) 748-3685 for updated schedule information.