St. Mary’s College of Maryland successfully launched its inaugural Space STEM Camp June 22-26, offering 28 high school students from St. Mary’s, Charles and Calvert counties an immersive week of hands-on learning in rocketry, space biology and astronomy.
The free program, sponsored by The Patuxent Partnership, continued the college’s commitment to providing quality STEM education opportunities for local youth. Faculty member Digesh Raut (physics) chaired the camp, joined by instructors Emily Barranca (mathematics) and Emily Brownlee (biology), with assistance from SMCM students Gillian Brewer and Amelia Fleming.
Titled “Space Camp: From Lab to Launchpad,” the week featured lectures, demonstrations and interactive activities. Students constructed and tested various rocket models, exploring fundamentals of design, propulsion and aerodynamics. They built and launched fizz rockets, stomp rockets and model rockets using commercial engines.
Daytime and evening telescope sessions allowed participants to observe sunspots, the moon, planets and other celestial objects using the college’s physics department telescopes. Evening sessions were open to family members and drew strong attendance.
Guest speakers enriched the experience by sharing real-world insights and career pathways in aerospace: Sandi Beaulieu, director of research for Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division; Capt. Pierre J. Thout, former NASA astronaut who flew on Space Shuttle missions Atlantis, Endeavour and Columbia; and Kylie Ho, corporate development and strategic partnerships for Blue Origin.
Participants developed critical skills in project management, communication, teamwork and problem-solving throughout the camp. The program highlighted the college’s role in preparing the next generation of scientists and engineers in Southern Maryland.
St. Mary’s College continues to expand its free STEM camp series, fostering curiosity and opportunity for local students in a region with strong ties to aerospace and defense industries.
