Kopernik Observatory & Science Center in Vestal runs weeklong STEM day camps for students entering grades 2-12, now in their 34th year. Camp days run 9:00 am to 3:00 pm and are grouped by grade band: younger campers build solar ovens and circuit wands, make erupting volcanoes and learn to use a telescope, while the oldest students build and launch a weather balloon and study the solar system, with sessions including talks from working scientists. The center also runs KoperniKids, a separate STEM program for children ages 3 to 6.
The practical details
We list only what the camp itself publishes, and programs change — dates, prices, ages and availability can all move after we check. Confirm the details on the camp’s own website and contact Kopernik Observatory & Science Center directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
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★★★★★Matt FellmanPowerful science spot with an amazing children's playground. Summer camps and telescopes!
★★★★★John PulloA hidden gem! Exciting to see so many passionate volunteers and a staff that's eager to share the observatory resources. Excellent, easy to enjoy family-friendly programming. Well be back for sure.
★★★★★PetLover47Drove from CT to enjoy this wonderful observatory! Staff there is knowledgeable and easy to communicate with. I'm in my 60s and they have renewed my interest in astronomy!
★★★★★Patrick ManleyGreat place for STEM activities, and if clear skies they have a fantastic lineup of telescopes.
★★★★★R BrunsA real treasure to have in the community. Staff was helpful and share their passion for astronomy. Nice displays inside including the moon rock on loan from NASA, to the scale miniatures of the Apollo missions. But the real treasure is the outdoor viewing of the moon, Saturn, Jupiter, and the andromeda galaxy through the available telescopes. What an experience!