Trip Overview

The Space Academy for Educators is a unique professional development program designed to bring the excitement of space exploration into the classroom. Hosted at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, this immersive training allows educators to participate in authentic astronaut simulations, STEM workshops, and NASA-inspired lesson plan development. The program equips teachers with hands-on tools and curriculum aligned to national science standards, helping them inspire the next generation of innovators.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Orientation
Arrival and check-in near the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Welcome session and program briefing.

Day 2: Space Science Foundations

• Introduction to NASA lesson plans
• Workshops on integrating STEM into classrooms
• Astronaut training simulators (1/6th Gravity Chair, Multi-Axis Trainer)

Day 3: Mission Training & Curriculum Development

• Simulated space missions for team-building
• Developing lesson plans linked to NASA missions
• Educational water-based activity

Day 4: Classroom Application

• Correlation with National Science Education Standards
• Tips for adapting space activities for all grade levels
• Workshop presentations

Day 5: Advanced STEM Engagement

• Exploration of space hardware and future missions
• Creating inquiry-based student projects
• Collaborative discussions with fellow educators

Day 6: Graduation & Departure

• Closing ceremony and certificate distribution
• Earn up to 45 hours of Continuing Education credit
• Departure after lunch

Cost Included

• Accommodation (offsite housing near University of Alabama in Huntsville)
• Meals (from Thursday breakfast to Monday lunch)
• Full access to astronaut training simulators and program activities
• Educational materials and NASA curriculum resources
• Official flight suit
• Certificate of Continuing Education Units (CEUs)

Cost Excluded

• International airfare
• Ground transportation to Huntsville (airport transfers available at extra cost)
• Personal expenses and optional purchases

Additional Program Elements

Educational Value: Educators gain STEM teaching strategies, ready-to-use lesson plans, and first-hand experience with space training to bring back to their classrooms.

Safety & Logistics: Housing and daily transport to the Space Center are provided. Programs are supervised by NASA-trained staff.

Group Requirements: Open enrollment; suitable for individual educators or groups. Offered June–August, with multiple sessions available.

Note: Sessions fill quickly. Educators are encouraged to register early for their preferred dates.