BLAST OFF into an Out-of-this-World School Holiday Adventure!

Welcome to the ultimate hands-on, curiosity-fueled space experience — right here at Mount Stromlo! This School Holiday Program is for those who are curious, dream of distant galaxies, love asking BIG questions, and are ready to embark on a mission of fun, discovery and friendship.

Whether keen to build rockets, meet astronomers, explore ancient meteorites or simulate space missions — this is where their space their adventure begins.

WHAT to Expect:

• Go behind-the-scenes and access a world-leading astronomy facility.

• Build and launch their own air rockets.

• Connect with surrounding nature walks, touch space rocks and investigate meteorites up close.

• Use telescopes to scan the sun, the night sky and decode constellations.

• Create their own star maps and intergalactic art.

• Dive into Virtual Reality

• Join astronomers for Q&A sessions and cosmic storytelling.

Each day is packed with hands-on science, energetic team missions, and plenty of outdoor fun in the stunning surrounds of Mount Stromlo.

HOW It's Delivered

Led by passionate educators, science communicators and space students, this immersive program is designed to bring science to life. We combine learning, fun and adventure in ways that spark curiosity and creativity.

Programs are split by age groups:

• Junior Astronauts (6–11 years)

• Youth Voyagers (12–15 years)

Expect teamwork, challenges, creativity, and curiosity-driven learning from Earth to the stars.

MISSION ACTIVITIES: (Note: The Youth Program offers a deeper dive, and closer look into ANU’s Facilities, History with our Astronomers.

• Build & Launch a Rocket Workshop

• Rover Design Challenge

• Star Map Creation & Cosmic Arts

• Solar Telescopes & Planet Spotting

• Gravitational Waves Workshop

• Space VR Simulator Experiences

• History of the Universe & Telescopes

• Stargazing (optional final evening add-on)

MISSION LOGISTICS

Age Groups:

• Junior Program: 6–11 years

• Youth Program: 12–15 years

Program Length:

• 3-day program

Time: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (unless program states otherwise)

Location: Mount Stromlo Observatory (Visitor Centre)

Meals:

• Breakfast available (if required) Program may include additional food at times.

• Pease bring lunch boxes to cover morning tea, lunch and afternoon team. IMPORTANT: We are a nut-aware program and ask to please remove.

PACKING LIST

• Water bottle + Meals

• Warm clothing options

• Jacket / weather-proof gear

• Enclosed walking shoes for exploring

• Backpack they can comfortably carry

• Spare clothes (optional)

BOOKING & PRICING

• 3-Day : $350.00

• 1-Day Mission Passes: $125.00/day

MISSION CONTROL NOTES

• Parents must sign children in/out each day. *Any changes to pick ups MUST inform staff asap.

• Late pick-up after 5:30PM incurs a $50 fee.

• All staff are WWVP certified and first aid trained.

• Transport included on excursion days (if needed).

• Program activities may vary due to weather or scheduling updates.

From telescope to rocket launch, let your child experience a school holiday they’ll never forget. The stars are calling!