Space & Astronomy Summer Camps in Charlotte
Is your child fascinated by the stars? Do they dream of walking on the moon or traveling to Mars? At Discovery Place Science in Uptown Charlotte, our Space & Astronomy summer camps launch young explorers into the wonders of the universe.
From the sun-scorched surface of Mercury to the icy rings of Saturn and beyond, our 2026 camps turn the cosmos into a classroom. Using astronomy tools, hands-on simulations, and the immersive power of science, we help future astronauts and astrophysicists take their first giant leaps.
Space Camps by Grade Level
Your mission begins here. Choose your launch crew:
Kindergarten (Ages 5-6)
Blast Off
Dates: June 15 – 19 | July 20 – 24
Mission Profile: Journey into the wonders of outer space! From blast off to splash down, campers will immerse themselves in the final frontier. They will explore stars, moons, and planets through sensory-rich activities designed to spark a lifelong love of the cosmos. It is the perfect first mission for your “mini” astronaut.
1st & 2nd Grade (Ages 6-8)
Planet Pioneers
Dates: June 22 – 26 | July 6 – 10 | July 20 – 24
Mission Profile: Set your sights on the solar system! Campers use real astronomy tools and skills to explore our neighboring planets and moons. But the mission doesn’t stop there—they will also discover planets orbiting other stars (exoplanets). What can these distant worlds teach us about Earth? This camp combines imagination with hard science.
3rd & 4th Grade (Ages 8-10)
Investigation: Discovery Place
Dates: June 29 – July 3 | July 27 – 31
Mission Profile: Science is full of mysteries, from the microscopic to the cosmic. In this investigative camp, participants work together to uncover the unknowns of the universe. Campers will use deductive reasoning to explore scientific anomalies, including those found in the vastness of space. Perfect for the camper who wants to ask the big questions: Are we alone? and How does the universe work?
5th & 6th Grade (Ages 10-12)
Science Smorgasbord
Dates: June 22 – 26 | August 3 – 7
Mission Profile: For the camper who wants it all. This multi-disciplinary camp includes a dedicated module to explore the mysteries of our galaxy. Pre-teens will dive into astrophysics concepts alongside robotics and engineering, understanding how technology allows us to explore deep space. It’s a STEAM-tastic experience that connects the dots between different scientific fields.
Why Choose Discovery Place for Space Science?
Tools of the Trade
We move beyond cardboard rockets. Our campers learn how astronomers actually study the universe—using lenses, light spectrums, and models to understand objects that are light-years away.
Immersive Environment
Located in Uptown Charlotte, our camps leverage the unique assets of Discovery Place Science. Campers are surrounded by exhibits that bring scientific concepts to life, making the abstract ideas of space travel feel concrete and achievable.
Inspiring Future Careers
The space industry is booming. Our camps introduce children to the real-world jobs of the future, from rocket engineering to astrobiology, showing them that the sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning.
Frequently Asked Questions (Space Camps)
Q: Do we need a telescope at home?
A: Not at all. We provide all the necessary scientific equipment for our activities.
Q: Is “Planet Pioneers” just about the Solar System?
A: It starts there, but it goes further! We also explore exoplanets (planets around other stars), helping children understand the sheer scale of our galaxy and the latest discoveries in astronomy.
Q: My child loves aliens. Is “Investigation” a good fit?
A: Yes! Investigation: Discovery Place taps into that curiosity by using the scientific method to look at “unknowns” and strange species. It channels their imagination into critical thinking.