Middle School Astronomy

This program combines academic courses, interactive labs, and recreational activities to give middle school students a supportive, fun, and enriching summer experience.

Summer Springboard Middle School program located in Berkeley

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Program Highlights

Design and launch their own model rockets while learning about propulsion, gravity, and the physics of space travel

Visit local planetariums to further understand planetary motion and celestial mechanics

Learn about the Mars Rover missions while taking a deep dive into robotic exploration and extraterrestrial geology

Young astronomers will learn about using telescopes and how to navigate the sky using a star wheel

Residential Tuition:
$2,898

Commuter Tuition:
$1,498

**Tuition will increase on December 1st, 2024**

Session 1:
July 6, 2025 July 11, 2025

Session 2:
July 13, 2025 July 18, 2025

Session 3:
July 20, 2025 July 25, 2025

Session 4:
July 27, 2025 August 1, 2025

Berkeley
Berkeley, CA

Testimonials

"I really enjoyed my Summer Springboard experience! It was such a welcoming environment and I made friends I plan to stay in contact with for years to come. The course load was enough to give me a taste of the college experience, while still allowing for a fun summer."

Rena C.
"I felt so welcomed by my peers and staff at this program, and I am so excited for a real college experience!"

Carter G.

Course Overview

Journey through the cosmos in this program that explores the wonders of astronomy and develops an understanding of our solar system. The program integrates mathematics, physics, and planetary geology while students learn about orbital mechanics, study astronomical distances, and investigate the conditions necessary for extraterrestrial life. Young astronomers will strengthen their scientific reasoning through studies of plantary atmospheres, meteor composition, and the effects of solar wind on our planet’s magnetic field. Come learn about space exploration and astronomical phenomena through curated activities and a visit to the local planetarium and NASA Ames Visitor Center.

Meet your instructor

Courses are taught by accomplished and passionate faculty recruited from many area colleges, universities and professional forums. Each faculty member is selected for their subject area expertise and proven ability to both challenge and captivate students.

Topics you'll explore

Hands on learning

Students will have the opportunity to engage with highly accomplished specialists in this field. Hands-on learning is experienced through company visits in and around the incredible Bay Area. Outside of course specific studies the students will explore all that Berkeley has to offer! With so much rich history, breathtaking sights, parks and famed landmarks at our fingertips there is something for everyone to discover!

Course Structure

There are five 3-hour class sessions over the one-week course. During the week, students have class from 9am-12pm, Monday - Friday (program check-out is on Friday at 2:30pm). Wednesday afternoon will be dedicated to additional academic time with possible excursions and/or guest speakers.

ADDITIONAL INFO
The Middle School programs operate separately from Summer Springboard high school programs with separate staff, accommodations, classes, and a more structured environment. For students completing grades 6-8.