Program Levels.

     The different levels of the academy are based on the knowledge, skill, confidence, and experience needed to complete the objectives for that level. Science, vision and persistence are the cornerstones of our achievement model. Each level of achievement builds on the one before, allowing the students to experience an open-ended and sophisticated learning experience that takes place across time.   Students in grades 1, 2 and 3 enroll in the

Pathfinder program. Students in grades 4 and above enroll in Cadet Level 1.

     In describing the Space Voyage Academy model, Dr. Palmere uses the analogy of a martial arts academy, where students must demonstrate a given set of knowledge and  skills before advancing to the next level, and that of Scouting where students must master a variety of skills and build experience before achieving the next rank. Students demonstrate their achievement through completion of specific objectives. Students in the higher levels serve as role models for those in the lower ranks. All achievement levels may attend the Academy during any given session.

Achievement… Everyone Achieves Their Own Medal.

     Specific objectives for each program level are given to the students at the beginning of the program week. Instructors and Camp Counselors assist, guide, and monitor progress of each student, signing off requirements upon completion. When all objectives are complete, an instructor formally recommends the student for recognition of completion of that level.   At an awards ceremony, a Space Flight Medal of Honor is presented to the achieving students.   Space Voyage Academy is designed for every student to achieve. By the end of a program week all participants should complete their requirements and be presented their medal of honor. Each level of the program has its own unique medal, and students are encouraged to wear all the medals they have received on Friday.

Description of Levels. 

Pathfinder 1, 2, 3 for ages 5-8. Awareness and exploration of space studies and space exploration through hands-on activities. Objectives are based on student grade level, ability, and interest. The evaluation criteria of the pathfinder program are: Do your best; Tell your instructor what you need; Ask questions; and, Work as a team when asked.  Objectives are process oriented and virtually all Pathfinders are highly successful.

Cadet Level Descriptions (For ages 9-16):

Level 1 Exploration and introduction to spaceflight mission planning, space shuttle flight operations, space station construction, and teamwork.

Level 2 Mastery of spaceflight mission planning, shuttle flight, space pod control, flight documentation, and teamwork.

Level 3 Proficiency in space operations.
Successful construction of a space station and management of a research project aboard the Space Station. Introduction to advanced flight  simulation including mastery of the shuttle landing sequences. Pre-planning, commitment, sustained motivation and  perseverance are the keys to success.  Level 3 may be done in one week, but typically takes two weeks to complete.

Level 4 Expertise in space operations. In Level 4, students
function as the Space Administrator of space operations. Long term strategic planning, management, and documentation of multiple research project are the focus of Level 4. Cadets are challenged to not only build a functioning space station, but to manage it so it can be used for an extended period of time, achieving at least two scientific breakthroughs. Upon completion of Level 4, cadets are considered experts in space station operations and qualify to enter the instructor group.

Level 5 Author a novel or radio drama based on
actual events that could occur aboard a space station. Technical  knowledge, organizational discipline, task commitment and leadership are keys to being successful.  In Level 5 cadets share their expertise and interests in manned space flight.

A Day at Space Voyage Academy.

    The following is a sample day at Space Voyage Academy.  Students arrive, review the previous day's work, and plan the day's activities. The Flight Director conducts a short briefing including news and reviews. Mini-seminars are conducted in small groups to teach needed concepts.  Students work with "crews" to reach objectives for their level.  Staff helps "crews" learn new concepts and strategies to be successful.  Students have lunch (sack lunch from home) while watching a space movie or video. After lunch a second briefing is given by the flight director to help with special concerns and interests.  Students continue to work independently and with their "crews".  Mini-space contests are held.  Each day at 3:20 p.m. a final briefing is held to review the day and prepare for the next day. Parents are welcome to attend this final briefing beginning at 3:20 p.m. Students are dismissed to leave with their parents at 3:30 p.m., or they can continue in "play hard" and be picked up as late as 3:50 p.m.

     At Space Voyage Academy, students are given the freedom to select activities in which they are interested, the power to achieve, and an environment to have fun. Each crew develops a sense of belonging, building real friendships and peer-to-peer alliances.  Many students return from one year to the next, progressing through the program and  staying in touch with new friends.

Academy Special Events.

      DAY 1 -  "MODEL BUILDERS INVITATIONAL" &
                    "SHUTTLE GLIDER CONTEST"
      DAY 2 -  "INTRODUCTION TO EDIBLE SPACE STATIONS"
                      "HOT DOG SPACE STATIONS"
      DAY 3 -  "THE BIG SPACE ICE CREAM SOCIAL"
      DAY 4 -  "EDIBLE SPACE STATIONS BY "CREWS"
      DAY 5 -  "PIZZA PARTY" LUNCH"  & 
                     "MEDALS PRESENTATIONS"