Mission to Mars

Mission to Mars

A Space-themed STEM Summer Camp

Blast off into summer with some out-of-this-world fun! As part of our Summer of Exploration, Engineering for Kids is launching Mission to Mars. In this space-themed summer camp, kids can experience real-world STEM applications and learn teamwork skills as they explore the Red Planet.

Fascinating new discoveries about Mars are happening right now in our lifetime and there’s no better time to encourage innovation, creativity, and collaboration. Technological advancements allow us to explore our galaxy and improve our knowledge of other planets, and the future is bright.

The study of Mars in the classroom is a great way to spark students' imagination and inspire them to become future engineers, astronauts, and scientists. Space camps offer the perfect opportunity to expand young minds, encourage learning, and allow them to explore STEM in a fun and safe environment.

Too Cool for School? No way! Why Educators Should Care About Summer Camps

Educational Summer camps bring perspective and real-world application to studies. They help students to extend and deepen the academic knowledge gained throughout the year. Students also have the potential to get ahead in school by continuing their studies. If students are having fun while learning, they are more likely to remember key STEM concepts and can bring this knowledge back to school next year. Support your students this Summer with this fun and educational Mission to Mars!

US space camp: a young boy tests a project while other kids watch.

Our five unique programs cover different areas of study to captivate all explorers: Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Multidisciplinary Engineering, Minecraft Technology, and Robotics. Campers can choose from one of the independent programs, or embark on a full Mission to Mars with all five programs!

A girl focuses on building a project at a space camp.

Missions & Mechanics (Mechanical Engineering Summer Program)

Missions and Mechanics is a space camp experience that allows students to see how mechanical engineering is applied to space exploration. In this program, campers will:

  • Learn all about the missions and mechanics of the Mars Rovers.
  • Experience the scientific wonder of space exploration by taking an in-depth look at how the rovers safely land and examine carefully selected sights on the surface of Mars to carry-out scientific investigations.
  • Launch into an investigation of the anatomy, tools, and technology rovers are equipped with.
  • Learn how the rover's work continues to deepen our understanding of the Red Planet.

Students will apply their learnings by using EFK’S Engineering Design Process to engage in hands-on STEM challenges. Building their own robo-arm, taking core samples from a potato, and attempting to land an egg are a few of the challenges engineers in the program will take on. These activities create real-world connections to space exploration and mechanical engineering
A girl at a table watches as a project is tested at a US space camp

Orbiters and Landers (Aerospace Engineering Summer Program)

Young engineers' minds are engaged in the Orbiters and Landers Program, which allows students to explore another side of engineering. In this program students will:

  • Take a comprehensive look at the landers and orbiters that are currently conducting important research on Mars.
  • Examine the anatomy of various orbiters and landers to gain a deeper understanding of how they assist in the work of scientists and engineers.
  • Discover the importance of Aerospace Engineering in allowing us to safely explore space.
  • Learn about the technology and innovation required for Aerospace engineers to one day bring human beings to the surface of Mars.

Each day, students will use EFK’s Engineering Design Process to make connections to Aerospace Engineering.
Space camps: A young boy interacts with other students in a classroom.

Survival on the Red Planet (Multidisciplinary Engineering Summer Program)

Calling all explorers! In this program, students will learn all about the science, technology, and engineering that will make the human habitation of Mars possible. Students will:

  • Gain an understanding of how the current Artemis Mission ties in with EFK’s space camp experience and learn about how this Mission is paving the way for future space exploration, one day sending humans to the surface of Mars.
  • Investigate the topic of human beings' basic needs for survival on the Red Planet, such as water, oxygen, solar energy, and protection from UV radiation.
  • Complete unique hands-on investigations, experiments, and building challenges.
  • Continue the fun by working in teams to design and build a physical prototype of their own Mars base.
A young boy playing Mission to Mars Minecraft program at a summer camp.p

Mission to Mars with Minecraft (Minecraft Technology Summer Program)

The year is 2037. Your team of engineers and scientists has just touched down on Mars. You are the first astronauts to return after a previously abandoned mission. Work together and use your knowledge of the Red Planet to complete tasks and ensure the survival of your team!

Unique educational tools can be used to help kids explore their world and learn more about science, technology, engineering, or mathematics. This summer camp experience incorporates Minecraft to allow for more extensive exploration. In this program, students will:

  • Learn all about the engineering, technology, and innovation required for the habitation of Mars.
  • Use the Minecraft world as a simulation tool to complete missions required for the survival and advancement of science of the Red Planet.
  • Apply creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving skills to complete missions within EFK’s custom Mission to Mars Minecraft Map.

Minecraft allows kids to study STEM while engaging in teamwork, feeling a sense of accomplishment, and having fun. This program will give kids an experience that is unlike any other US space camp.
Three boys work on a robot at a STEM summer camp

Robotic Mission to Mars (Robotics Summer Program)

This space-themed camp experience is integral to any student interested in the fun of robotics! During this week of camp, students will:

  • Learn all about robotic missions to Mars and the important role robots play in scientific knowledge of the Red Planet and in paving the way for future habitation by human beings.
  • Build with Lego SPIKE and learn how to program robots to complete specific missions.
  • Engage in hands-on robotic engineering challenges.
  • Use EFK’s Engineering Design Process in this program as they brainstorm, design, and build robotics.

Educational Summer camps like Mission to Mars engage students in STEM activities that bring excitement and real-world application to their studies. All of EFK’s programs seek to enhance school lessons in intriguing ways.

Join us on this mission that could inspire the future generation towards its next great leap forward!

What are you waiting for? See what Summer Camps your local Engineering For Kids has to offer!
EFK mascot Kevin floating

Out of This World Reviews

  • "Engineering For Kids classes are so fun and you get to learn new things about engineering each day."

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  • "It's fun and educational, it provides opportunities to kids and teaches them about life."

    - Jo P.

  • "It's like a playground for their mind!"

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