July 15-19, 2024

Open to rising 7th to 9th graders in Chautauqua County

This summer, Martz-Kohl Observatory and Falconer Central Schools are thrilled to offer Chautauqua County students entering grades 7 through 9 a weeklong Space STEM Camp experience. The day camp will be held July 15 – 19, 2024. There are 24 slots available this year.

Students will learn about the history of space observations and explorations, build and keep their own Galileo-type telescopes, learn how to use the 24″ telescope at the observatory, and build and launch model rockets. Students will also have the opportunity to visit the Challenger Center in Olean, NY to complete a Mars Rover mission. Other guest speakers and activities are planned. Students will have a chance to view and learn the night skies through the lens of the observatory telescopes and the Falconer School planetarium – and will become part of a community of star gazers. Students will have a fun summer experience that is also academic. They will build new friendships and be amazed and inspired!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) are below.

Ready to Sign-up?

Click here to go to the online registration form.

Click here for a PDF form to mail or hand-deliver.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is eligible to attend?

Students entering grades 7 – 9, who are enrolled in a public school in Chautauqua County are eligible to attend. Students in private school or homeschool who reside in Chautauqua County are also eligible, if proof of vaccinations required for public school are provided with the application.

How much does camp cost?

The camp is meant to be provided at a very low cost, and is primarily funded through local grants and supported by volunteers from the school and observatory. We will ask for a $50 application fee per camper. Students who are placed on the waiting list and do not receive an open slot will receive a full refund.

Where is the camp held?

The camp will be held at Falconer Middle/High School in Falconer, NY, and at Martz-Kohl Observatory in neighboring Frewsburg, NY.

What are the hours?

Camp will run daily M, T, Th and F from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. On Wednesday, camp will run from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. so students can view the night sky at the observatory.

Is transportation provided?

Families will need to arrange transportation to Falconer Middle/High School daily for the start of camp. A school bus will take students to the observatory, and on the return trip will stop at both Frewsburg High School and at Falconer High School for parent pick up at the end of camp each day. On Friday, parents/guardians attending the open house at the observatory can sign students out at the observatory and drive them home, or pick them up at each school.

What food will be provided?

A snack will be provided daily. Dinner will be provided Wednesday, and a reception with treats will be provided Friday. Students are responsible for packing their lunch and a water bottle. Allergies and food sensitivies will be taken into consideration.

What’s the next step in the process?

Click here to complete the online form to register or print and mail a PDF form. Registration opens on March 1, 2024, and will continue until the 24 slots are filled. A registration is complete when the form is completed and submitted with supporting documentation, and registration payment of $50.00 per child is received by the Martz-Kohl Observatory..

view a PDF of the registration form

go to to the online registration form