Space & Science
Field Trips
Blast off into a universe of possibilities with a field trip to Space Foundation Discovery Center!
Designed for K–12 students, our programs use the excitement of space to integrate science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) across content areas—preparing students to become the workforce of tomorrow. Complex STEM concepts become more approachable in our informal learning environment, which aligns with NGSS standards and emphasizes hands-on exploration and discovery. Meet our team of educators prepared to give your students the most memorable and impactful learning experiences.
Our field trips are supported by a dedicated team of volunteers, many who have worked in the space industry, giving your students real-world insight into space exploration. Students can engage with interactive exhibits and explore our recently renovated gallery. Field trip activities may include robotics, “junk” engineering, simulated space environments, and other cutting-edge technology designed to inspire curiosity and creativity.
Field trips are available year-round and can be delivered:
- In person at the Discovery Center
- Virtually through curated online experiences
Programs are open to classroom teachers, schools, educational institutions, and homeschool organizations. We also offer seasonal programs perfect for youth groups, camps, and daycares during summer months.
Do you have a question or want to book a Field Trip?
Field Trip
- $10.00 / Teacher or Adult (1 FREE teacher or adult for every 15 students)
- Min of 15 students required, max 120 students
- Topics align with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
- Each field trip includes:
• Science On a Sphere® presentation
• Hands-on activity lesson aligned with the chosen topic
• Scavenger hunt in the Discovery Center Gallery - Duration: Approx 2 hours
Mini
- $10.00 / Teacher or Adult (1 FREE teacher or adult for every 15 participants)
- Min of 15 participants required, max 60 participants
- Topics align with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
- Each field trip includes:
• Science On a Sphere® presentation
• Scavenger hunt in the Discovery Center Gallery - Duration: Approx 1 hour
Virtual
- • For up to 50 students
- • Delivered live via Zoom, using our Science On a Sphere®
- • Topics align with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
- Each virtual field trip includes:
• Science On a Sphere® presentation
• A hands-on activity lesson plan to be shared with the teacher - • Duration: Approx 1 hour
Field Trip Topics
| DESCRIPTION | NGSS STANDARDS | AGE GROUP |
| In this exciting space-themed STEM challenge, students become engineers as they design and build their own rovers using simple materials. They'll test their rovers on ramps with different surfaces to explore how inclined planes affect motion. Through hands-on experimentation, students investigate the effects of pushes and pulls while discovering how simple machines help rovers explore space terrain. | K-PS2-1, K-PS2-2, K-2-ETS-2 | K–2nd |
| DESCRIPTION | NGSS STANDARDS | AGE GROUP |
| Step into the changing world of the seasons with our Ozobot seasonal exploration activity! In this interactive session, participants will use a light model to observe and understand the fascinating interaction between the Earth and the Sun across the four seasons. They will also guide an Ozobot along seasonal paths to explore the different characteristics of each unique season. | 1-PS4-2, 1-PS4-3, 1-ESS1-2 | K–2nd |
| DESCRIPTION | NGSS STANDARDS | AGE GROUP |
| Excitement will bubble up in this fun activity all about the states of matter! Students will experiment with dry ice bubbles to explore each state of matter, then search for examples all around them. Learn how the states of matter shape our understanding of the universe! | 2-PS1-1, 2-PS1-2, 2-PS1-4, S-ESS2-3 |
1st–3rd |
| DESCRIPTION | NGSS STANDARDS | AGE GROUP |
| Get ready to dig into the science of mining on the Moon! Work together in this hands-on experience to build and collect rare minerals as quickly as you can! | 3-PS2-3, 3-PS2-4, 3-5 ETS1 | 2nd–4th |
| DESCRIPTION | NGSS STANDARDS | AGE GROUP |
| Get ready to blast off on a rockin’ adventure through space and time! In this hands-on mission, you’ll melt, press, and transform crayons to discover how real rocks change into igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic forms. We’ll even explore how rocks found on Mars can help reveal secrets about the Red Planet’s past. | 4-ESS2-1, 5-PS1-3 | 3rd–5th |
| DESCRIPTION | NGSS STANDARDS | AGE GROUP |
| What does it take to land on Mars? In our exciting Engineering Design Challenge, students will work in teams to design their very own Mars lander, applying concepts in physics, engineering, and problem-solving. They’ll consider factors like gravity, atmosphere, and terrain to create a model lander that can safely deliver a payload to Mars' surface. | 5-PS2-1, 3-5 ETS1, MS-ETS1 | 5th–12th |
| DESCRIPTION | NGSS STANDARDS | AGE GROUP |
| Can you withstand the heat? Students will take on the role of aerospace engineers as they design and test protective heat shields capable of withstanding the extreme temperatures of atmospheric re-entry. Students explore concepts in thermodynamics, conduction, and materials science as they attempt to protect their "astronaut" from a propane torch blast. Through observation, testing, and redesign, this lesson offers a powerful way to connect chemistry, physics, and engineering with real-world space challenges. | MS-PS1-4, MS-PS1-6, MS-PS3-4, MS-ETS1 | 5th–12th |
| DESCRIPTION | NGSS STANDARDS | AGE GROUP |
| Take on the growing challenge of space debris with this hands-on, engineering-based lesson! Students will explore how scientists and engineers are tackling the issue of orbital junk by designing their own space debris capture systems. Using Sphero Indi robots and everyday materials, students will engage in problem-solving, teamwork, and iterative design as they build and code their way to cleaner skies. This fast-paced activity introduces real-world physics and robotics concepts while encouraging creativity and collaboration. Ideal for educators looking to bring coding, engineering, and environmental awareness together in a fun and meaningful way. | MS-PS2-1, MS-ESS3-3, MS-ETS1 | 6th–12th |
| DESCRIPTION | NGSS STANDARDS | AGE GROUP |
| Drive into an exciting exploration of Mars! Students will learn about the topography of Mars, how to navigate its surface, and the challenges of driving rovers there. Along the way, they’ll engage in fun, hands-on programming activities as they send Discovery Center robots on mini Mars journeys. *Max 30 students. | MS-PS2-2 | 6th–12th |
| DESCRIPTION | NGSS STANDARDS | AGE GROUP |
| Get ready to bring space to life! In this hands-on field trip, students will build a 3D model of the Earth, Sun, and Moon to discover how these celestial bodies interact, while also exploring the fascinating missions that have sent humanity to our nearest neighbor. Elementary students will uncover the mysteries of Moon phases, while older students will dive into the science of eclipses. It’s a lunar adventure that’s out of this world! | 1-ESS1-1 5-ESS1 MS-ESS1-1 |
K–2nd 3rd–5th 6th–8th |
| DESCRIPTION | NGSS STANDARDS | AGE GROUP |
| Embark on a thrilling tour across our Solar System! Students will learn about the Solar System and Earth's place within it, including the latest information on discoveries and the future of exploration. Engage with robots to learn more about how NASA explores the tiny slice of the Milky Way Galaxy we call home. Perfect for students of all ages who want to discover the wonders of our Universe. | 1-ESS1 3-5-ETS1-2, MS-ESS1-2, MS-ETS1 |
K–2nd 3rd–12th |
| DESCRIPTION | NGSS STANDARDS | AGE GROUP |
| Blastoff in this explosively fun lesson all about rocketry! Students will learn about rocket design and the past, present, and future of rocket launches. Then assemble your own air-powered rockets while thinking about how forces like direction and magnitude affect the motion of an object. Test different variables to perfect your rocket's design while striving to reach the Moon and beyond. This field trip is an excellent introduction to Newton's Laws of Motion and how rockets take us into space. | K-PS2, K-2-ETS1 3-PS2-2, 3-5 ETS1 MS-PS-2, MS-ETS1-3 |
K–2nd 3rd–5th 6th–12th |
| DESCRIPTION | NGSS STANDARDS | AGE GROUP |
| Learn the basics of how to communicate with robots! Younger explorers will engage with Sphero's Indi robot, a very simple and accesible entry point for students of all ages to begin their robotics journey. Students will learn to program Indi using color and guide it through a series of challenges. More advanced students will begin to learn block coding and how to program robots through a series of complicated tasks. Perfect for mixed age groups and those hoping to empower their students to feel control over complicated technologies of the future. | K-2-ETS1, 3-PS2-2, 3-5 ETS1 MS-ETS1, HS-ETS1 |
K–5th 6th–12th |
Mini Field Trip Topics
| DESCRIPTION | NGSS STANDARDS | AGE GROUP |
| Embark on a thrilling tour across our Solar System! Students will learn about the Solar System and Earth's place within it, including the latest information on discoveries and the future of exploration. Perfect for students of all ages who want to discover the wonders of our Universe. | 1-ESS1, 3-5-ETS1-2, MS-ESS1-2, MS-ETS1 |
K–12th |
| DESCRIPTION | NGSS STANDARDS | AGE GROUP |
| Dive into an exciting exploration of Mars! Students will learn all about this history of the Red Planet and why it is such a good candidate in our search for life. Explore the different orbiters and landers that have made the long journey to Mars and the discoveries they have sent back to Earth. | MS-PS2-2 | K–12th |
| DESCRIPTION | NGSS STANDARDS | AGE GROUP |
| Get ready to bring space to life! In this field trip, students will learn all about the Earth, Sun, and Moon to discover how these celestial bodies interact, while also exploring the fascinating missions that have sent humanity to our nearest neighbor. Students will uncover the mysteries of Moon phases and dive into the science of eclipses. It’s a lunar adventure that’s out of this world! | 1-ESS1-1, 5-ESS1, MS-ESS1-1 |
K–12th |
| DESCRIPTION | NGSS STANDARDS | AGE GROUP |
| Blastoff in this explosively fun lesson all about rocketry! Students will learn about rocket design and the past, present, and future of rocket launches. This field trip is an excellent introduction to Newton's Laws of Motion and how rockets take us into space. | K-PS2, K-2-ETS1, 3-PS2-2, 3-5 ETS1, MS-PS-2, MS-ETS1-3 | K–12th |
Virtual Field Trip Topics
| DESCRIPTION | NGSS STANDARDS | AGE GROUP |
| Embark on a thrilling tour across our Solar System! Students will learn about the Solar System and Earth's place within it, including the latest information on discoveries and the future of exploration. Learn more about current missions and how NASA explores the tiny slice of the Milky Way Galaxy we call home. Perfect for students of all ages who want to discover the wonders of our Universe. | 1K-2-ETS1-1, K-2-ETS1-3, 1-ESS1, 2-ESS1, 2-PS1-3, 3-PS2-2, 3-5-ETS1-3, 5-ESS1-1, 5-ESS1-2, MS-ESS1-1, MS-ESS1-2, MS-ESS1-3 | K–12th |
| DESCRIPTION | NGSS STANDARDS | AGE GROUP |
| Blast off in this explosively fun lesson all about rocketry! Students will learn about rocket design and the past, present, and future of rocket launches. Discover how NASA designs each rocket with a specific mission in mind. This field trip is an excellent introduction to Newton's Laws of Motion and how rockets take us into space. | K-PS2-2, K-2-ETS1-1, K-2-ETS1-1, K-2ETS1-3, 3-PS2-2, MS-ETS1, HS-ETS1 | 3rd–12th |
| DESCRIPTION | NGSS STANDARDS | AGE GROUP |
| Bring the Moon right into your classroom! In this lesson, students will learn all about the Moon's phases, eclipses, and geologic history. Revisit the history of the Space Race as well as the ongoing mission to bring humans back to the Moon. | 1-ESS1, 2-ESS1, 3-PS2, 4-ESS1, 5-PS2, 5-ESS1 | K–12th |
| DESCRIPTION | NGSS STANDARDS | AGE GROUP |
| Mars: the fourth terrestrial planet in our solar system and the next great adventure in space exploration. Students will study the Red Planet, its features, and exploration of the past, present, and future. Come learn about why Mars is so intriguing to scientists and why it could hold the answer to the question: are we alone in the universe? | KK-2-ETS1, 3-5 ETS1, 4-ESS1-1, 4-ESS2-2, MS-ESS1-3, MS-ESS2-1, MS-ESS2-2, MS-ESS2-3, MS-ETS1-1, MS-ETS1-2, MS-ETS1-3, MS-ETS1-4 | 3rd–12th |
Become a Teacher Liaison
Teacher liaisons are extraordinary educators who use space-related education programs and principles in the classroom to act as advocates for space-based education in their schools and districts.
Science On a Sphere® (SOS) Based Courses:
SOS is a dynamic spherical projection system that uses special software and satellite imagery to render images onto the global surface that provide dramatic, full-motion views of the Earth, Sun, moons and planets in space.
Each Sphere course is calibrated for a specific grade-level standard, but may also be appropriate for a range of grades as noted in the descriptions.
Call the Reservation Department at the Space Foundation to set up your student or group visit today at +1.719.576.8000 or contact us here.
Mars Robotics Laboratory:
Space Foundation's Mars Robotics Laboratory provides a unique experience in one of the largest labs of its kind in the world. The simulated Martian terrain offers a chance for participants to program robotic rovers to complete mission objectives individually or in teams.
The Mars Lab uses LEGO® NXT equipment and MINDSTORMS® software to simulate lifelike Mars rover missions to:
- Teach communication and collaboration skills
- Hone creative problem-solving skills
- Increase team engagement
- Deliver a hands-on component to lessons about Mars and space exploration
- Develop interest and skills in robotics
Call the Reservation Department at Space Foundation to set up your student or group visit today at +1.719.576.8000 or contact us here.
AGI Space Missions Simulation Laboratory:
AGI Space Missions Simulation Laboratory courses teach space-based science, technology, engineering and mathematics (S-STEM) principles and other subject areas in a format that appeals to the high-touch, fast-paced video game generation. Offering students the opportunity to use the same state-of-the-art modeling and visualization software used by space industry professionals, the AGI Space Missions Simulation Laboratory features equipment and software donated by Space Foundation Corporate Member Analytical Graphics, Inc. (AGI).
Call the Reservation Department at the Space Foundation to set up your student or group visit today at +1.719.576.8000 or contact us here.
Mission Alpha Courses:
Utilize the AGI Space Simulations Laboratory, but without using STK software. Minimum 15 students; $10.00 per student; 1 free adult for every 15 students; additional adults $5.00 each; transportation not included; school district bus drivers admitted free with school ID.
Call the Reservation Department at Space Foundation to set up your student or group visit today at +1.719.576.8000 or contact us here.
Mission Bravo Courses:
Utilize the AGI Space Simulations Laboratory, but without using STK software. Minimum 15 students; $10.00 per student; 1 free adult for every 15 students; additional adults $5.00 each; transportation not included; school district bus drivers admitted free with school ID.
Call the Reservation Department at Space Foundation to set up your student or group visit today at +1.719.576.8000 or contact us here.
Voyage 1 details:
- Educator led
- $15/student
- Pre-visit to your classroom or virtually
- Science On a Sphere® presentation
- Hands-on activity
- Scavenger hunt in the SFDC gallery
- Minimum 15 students
- 1 free adult for every 15 students
- Additional adults $5.00 each
- Transportation not included
- School district bus drivers admitted free with school ID
- In-person sessions outside the Colorado Springs area will incur additional negotiated fees
Call the Reservation Department at Space Foundation to set up your student or group visit today at +1.719.576.8000 or contact us here.
Voyage 2 details:
- Educator led
- $10/student
- Science On a Sphere® presentation
- Hands-on activity
- Scavenger hunt in the SFDC gallery
- Minimum 15 students
- 1 free adult for every 15 students
- Additional adults $5.00 each
- Transportation not included
- School district bus drivers admitted free with school ID
- In-person sessions outside the Colorado Springs area will incur additional negotiated fees
Call the Reservation Department at Space Foundation to set up your student or group visit today at +1.719.576.8000 or contact us here.
Voyage 3 details:
- Educator led
- $7/student
- Science On a Sphere® presentation
- Scavenger hunt in the SFDC gallery
- Minimum 15 students
- 1 free adult for every 15 students
- Additional adults $5.00 each
- Transportation not included
- School district bus drivers admitted free with school ID
- In-person sessions outside the Colorado Springs area will incur additional negotiated fees
Call the Reservation Department at Space Foundation to set up your student or group visit today at +1.719.576.8000 or contact us here.
Voyage 4 details:
- Docent led
- $4.50/student
- Science On a Sphere® presentation
- Scavenger hunt in the SFDC gallery
- Minimum 15 students
- 1 free adult for every 15 students
- Additional adults $5.00 each
- Transportation not included
- School district bus drivers admitted free with school ID
- In-person sessions outside the Colorado Springs area will incur additional negotiated fees
Call the Reservation Department at Space Foundation to set up your student or group visit today at +1.719.576.8000 or contact us here.
Voyage 5 details:
- Educator led
- $150/session
- Science On a Sphere® presentation
- Hands-on activity lesson plan will be shared with teacher
Call the Reservation Department at Space Foundation to set up your student or group visit today at +1.719.576.8000 or contact us here.
Start today to build a brighter future
To start planning your field trip, email us! sfdcreservations@spacefoundation.org
