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/grades. (see details below):

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

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

• Build & Launch a Rocket Workshop

• Star Map Creation & Cosmic Arts

• Solar Telescopes & Planet Spotting

• Exploring Gravitational Waves

• Space VR Simulator Experiences

• History of the Universe & Telescopes

• Stargazing (optional final evening add-on)

MISSION LOGISTICS

Age Groups:

• Junior Astronauts (Grades 4-6)

• Youth Voyagers (Grades 7-9)

Program Length:

• 3-day program (Juniors) // 4-day program (Youth)

Time: 8:30am – 5:00pm (unless program states otherwise/family nights/observing nights)

Juniors: Optional childcare 5:00–6:00 pm (extra charge).

Dates: Spring (Sept/Oct) Holiday Program

• Youth: Mon 29th September - Thurs 2nd October, 2025

• Junior: Tues 30th September - Thurs 2nd October, 2025

Location: Mount Stromlo Observatory (Visitor Centre)

Meals:

• Pease bring lunch boxes to cover morning tea, lunch and afternoon team.

• IMPORTANT: We are a nut-aware program and ask to you please remove any products.

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

• Juniors 3-Day : $360.00 (*add on for additional 5pm-6pm care $20.00 per day)

• Youth - 4-Day : $520.00 (*check program for pick up times/night observing)

MISSION CONTROL NOTES

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

• Late pick-up after 5:00pm incurs a $50 fee.

• All staff are WWVP certified

• 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!