Science Camps for Ages 11 to 14

Here projects take a jump in sophistication.  While no previous experience is required, our eleven to fourteen year olds complete projects involving soldering, instruction following, sawing, and using power tools.  Some workshops require the taking of notes.  Deep discussions about artificial intelligence and good vs. bad technology are the norm.  As with all Big Sky workshops, there is an emphasis on balancing fun with focus so that projects are completed.

Home Baked Security 11-14 June 9-13

Why let the White House have all the fun.  Come build a high power parabolic listening device, a working alarm system for your room, bike, or backpack, and an electronic lie detector.  This camp is a circuit builder’s paradise.

Solar Bedroom System 11-14 June 16-20

Why wait for your parents to go solar?  You can operate lights, music, a laptop, and charge your phone, iPod and portable gaming device with this home made off the grid 12 volt system.  You also get to build a detachable rechargeable light for finding old sandwiches under your bed.  (additional materials fee of $25)

Mp3 Laser Light Show Juke Box 11-14 July 7-11

Perfected after years of development, this Big Sky stereo competes with high grade systems.  Plug in your Mp3, CD, Cassette, or 8 Track (that’s a joke) and blast out clear full range sound while lights sparkle and a laser projects designs that follow the music.  Can be powered by the Solar Bedroom System and can become a big amp for your Electric Slide Guitar.  You will be very smart by the end of this one. (additional materials fee of $25)  

Electric Slide Guitar and Amp 11-14 June 23-27

The electric slide guitar is coming back.  Shred out wailing solos with your own home built guitar.  This year we add on board amplification.  You’ll learn a ton about tone and circuitry.

iPod Mods 11-14 July 14-18

Create a super strong carbon fiber case, a solar recharging system, a pair of home made speakers and more!  Have the coolest iPod on the block (That is, unless someone else from your street also signs up for this camp.)  This camp is for folks who have any brand of Mp3 player.

R/C Robot Olympics 11-14 July 21-25

When you come in on Monday you get two 18 volt drills (for wheel power), a 2 channel radio control, a pile of supplies and a whole lot of skilled helpers.  When you go out on Friday you have a competition bot that integrates your own designs.  Work, learn, play, and compete in the robot Olympics. (additional materials fee of $50)

Hammer Valve Grape Cannon 11-14 July 28-August 1

An all new design for the classic Big Sky grape cannon.  Make a surprisingly powerful bolt-action grape shooter.   Then design and fabricate an arcade of electro-mechanical targets.  This adventure is for mature and responsible kids only.  Call Michael for permission to attend.

Powered Flight 11-14 August 4-8

All new for 2008.  Dive (or rather, fly) into the amazing world of model aviation.  We start with simple flyers and then graduate to fully functional home-built motor powered remote control planes. (additional materials fee of $50).

Rockets and Launchers August 11-15

Water rocketry has got to be the cheapest fun on earth. Using recycled bottles and other parts you will make a rocket that will fly up to 400 feet in the air.  Then learn the fascinating science of pressure and projectiles as you build a stomp launcher that can shoot paper rockets over 100 feet (with goggles on, of course!).