The National Air and Space Museum hopes to expand interest and capabilities in science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) fields by engaging and empowering our Aviation Explorers to seek out and succeed in STEAM fields. 

In summer 2025, we’ll hold our Aviation Explorers Camp, serving local communities in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia.

Sixty Explorers will participate in this one-of-a-kind free summer camp introducing them to the science of flight and exposing them to diverse careers in aviation. Campers meet with aviation experts, participate in exciting hands-on design challenges and even have the opportunity to earn their wings and fly with a certified flight instructor.

Application portal is now open for summer 2025. Applications close on March 31. All prospective campers will be notified of their acceptance status after April 14.

Learn About

What to Expect
Where and When
How to Participate
Contact Us

What to Expect

Aimed at building lifelong relationships with local students, our camp consists of a whirlwind of activities. 

Learn to Fly

  • Receive hands-on flight instruction on FAA certified simulators
  • Take off on a 30-minute discovery flight with a local flight school
  • Complete all of the checks necessary to finish the “Pilot” program

Dive Into STEAM

  • Test aerodynamics in indoor skydiving or outdoor ziplining experiences
  • Get in the engineering mindset with daily design challenges
  • Launch a rocket to explore aerodynamics

Explore Careers

  • Explore an aircraft mechanical school
  • Speak to experts in the commercial airspace and cyber security fields

Build Confidence

  • Track progress and capture milestones in a personalized flight log book
  • Work in teams to solve real-world problems
  • Connect with Museum staff, aviation professionals, and our iconic artifacts to build lifelong relationships
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When and Where

Students can participate in one of two sessions, hosted at the Museum's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia.

Two campers, pre-teens, stand with their arms around each other in a blue T-shirt.
   

Session One (New Campers)

Wednesday, June 18 - Tuesday, July 1
8:00 am - 3:00 pm ET

Session Two (New Campers)

Monday, July 28 - Friday, August 8 
8:00 am - 3:00 pm ET

Each session will consist of 30 students. Lunch, snacks, and transportation to activities are provided. 

How to Participate

All young explorers, of any gender, with a passion for learning and aviation are asked to submit an application. Campers should live in DC, Maryland, Virginia, and preference is given to potential campers who attend a Title I school or Title I eligible school or qualify for free or reduced lunches. The summer camp is free for all participants. 

For New Explorers, campers must be in grades six through eight during the 2024-2025 school year.
 

Applications should include the following:

  • A few sentences about why you’d like to participate
  • A recommendation from a teacher or community leader that speaks to your interest in aviation
  • Whether you attend a Title I school or qualify for free or reduced lunch

Apply Now      Submit Your Letter of Recommendation

Applications close on March 31. All prospective campers will be notified of their acceptance status after April 14.

Aviation Explorers Camp Sponsors

Kislak Family Foundation
Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation
DaRin Butz Foundation  
Jamie and James Coss Charitable Fund
Howmet Aerospace
Bob Catell