Thursday, April 23
8:30am - 3:00pm

CHRISTA MCAULIFFE CENTER
FRAMINGHAM STATE UNIVERSITY

for Individual Participants in grades 5-8

Expedition Mars space mission simulation in the Challenger Learning Center, including brand-new VR briefings, and Planetary Defense Workshop led by The Space Consortium as part of Massachusetts Space Week. For individual participants in grades 5-8 during April School Vacation.

APRIL 22 PROGRAM

Time: 8:30am-3:00pm (includes mission simulation AND Planetary Defense Workshop.)
Age Group: Children in grades 5-8
Cost: $75 per participant

PROGRAMMING OFFERED

Expedition Mars

Space Mission Simulation in the Challenger Learning Center with Briefings in VR

The year is 2076. A handful of facilities have been established on Mars: a greenhouse, a mobile geological survey base, and a centralized research habitat. The primary human habitat is not on Mars, but on one of its moons, Phobos. A Spacecraft regularly ferries astronauts and scientists between the base on Phobos and the surface of Mars. The Spacecraft also carries parts to build a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) to continue the search for evidence of life and water. However, when crew members discover an imminent threat to their Spacecraft and the Martian surface facilities, they must act quickly to save their stations, their research, and their lives.

Planetary Defense Workshop

Led by The Space Consortium  as part of Massachusetts Space Week 2026.

This engaging workshop invites particpates to dive into the wonders of astronomy, space exploration, and planetary defense. Through interactive activities and expert-led discussions, participants will:

• Discover the secrets of our solar system, from the icy comets to the rocky asteroids

• Learn how scientists protect Earth from asteroids and comets through cutting-edge planetary defense strategies and space missions

This workshop blends theory with hands-on exploration, ensuring a fun and educational experience for young minds. This program aims to foster curiosity in science education, making space an accessible and fascinating field for everyone.

PROGRAM SCHEDULE

Drop off: Starting at 8:30am
Expedition Mars Preparation: 8:45am-9:30am
Expedition Mars: 9:30am-11:30am
Lunch Break: 11:30am-12:00pm
STEM and Team Building Activities: 12:00-1:00pm
Planetary Defense Workshop: 1:00pm-3:00pm
Pick up: 3:00pm

WHAT TO EXPECT

• This highly entertaining program is designed to deliver a STEM learning experience that requires participants to actively engage in a wide range of tasks in a timely manner.

• To ensure full enjoyment of the program, participants are encouraged to arrive 15 minutes prior to the program start time to allow for check-in.

• This is a drop-off/pick-up event.

• If you are not familiar with the Framingham State University campus, it is recommended you add travel time for traffic and navigating the campus.

• The McAuliffe Center does not provide food or refreshments for the program.

• A registration confirmation email provides additional information about your visit to the McAuliffe Center.

Cost: $75 per participant

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Questions? Contact McAuliffe Center at cmc@framingham.edu