The UP Astrosoc Astronomy Camp
The Astrocamp is an annual event by the UP Astronomical Society aimed at sharing the experience of Astronomy to young people from the Metro Manila area. It aims to sow a lifelong interest in the sciences by exposing young minds to the wonders of astronomy. It is held during the Philippine National Astronomy Week, every third week of February.
UP Astrosoc takes in forty to sixty kids and ushers them on an overnight tour of the night sky. Activities usually include lectures and presentations on astronomy subjects and upcoming events in astronomy and space exploration. This is followed by a stargazing session which lasts all the way into dawn.
For many of these kids, the Astrocamp is their only chance to see night sky wonders such as the rigns of saturn or the cloud bands and moons of Jupiter. The kids are able to get hands-on use of various binoculars and telescopes for exploring the night sky.
It is an experience that is enjoyed and remembered not only by the participants but also by the adult teachers and companions of the participants.
AstroCamp 2007:
Let us show you the stars:
The UP Astronomical Society AstroCamp. Exploring the wonders of the Night Sky
February 20, 2007, UP NISMED Rooftop Observatory
The 2007 Astrocamp returns to UP NISMED for a night of celestial wonders. Participants will get to learn about observing the night sky and searching for its hidden treasures. Using UP NISMED's 14inch telescope and their other 3 inch refractors, we will get to see craters on the quarter moon and the rings of the planet Saturn. Also get to the winter constellations of Orion and his dogs, Sirius and Lepus as well as Orion's rival, Taurus the bull. Also learn how to construct using softdrink bottles rockets which fly to over 30 feet (that's over three stories tall!) The 2007 Astrocamp promises to be one memorable night not only for the kids but also for being one of the best Astrocamp's ever held. Ad astra per aspera!
