Next week, Andøya Space will transform into a learning arena for young space enthusiasts from around the world. Through the European Space Camp, 23 selected students will get a unique opportunity to explore rocket physics, teamwork, and the dream of space.
At Andøya Space, preparations are underway to welcome 23 space-curious youths who will spend an entire week learning about rockets, physics, and teamwork.
“European Space Camp is an annual event that began back in 1996,” explains Jøran Grande, Head of Andøya Space Education. “The participants often envision a future career in the space industry and are eager to learn more. They go through an intense week filled with lectures, hands-on tasks, and unforgettable experiences.”
The camp is organized in close collaboration with Team Space Camp, made up of former participants. This year’s camp will be officially opened by Joakim Sennesvik, County Councilor for Education and Competence.
Lectures are delivered by Andøya Space staff, scientists, physicists, and some years even real European astronauts make an appearance.
“This year, the participants will get to meet Norway’s first private astronaut, Jannicke Mikkelsen,” says Grande enthusiastically. “She’ll share her experience from the Fram2 space mission.”
During the camp, the students will build their own research rocket and take part in its launch. They’ll assemble electronics, solder, calculate, and analyze.
“The week wraps up with them presenting the results from the rocket’s flight data. So they’ll be super busy all week—but there’s still time for barbecues, swimming, and excursions,” says Grande.
Lukass Kellijs is the head of Team Space Camp, volunteering his free time to make European Space Camp a great experience for the participants.
“The participants really learn the core value of teamwork, form new friendships that will last a lifetime, and at the same time build a network that will help them in their future careers,” Kellijs explains. “As a team, they get to share cultural traditions, solve problems, and expand their knowledge. It is truly an unforgettable experience.”
The summer camp is very popular, with more applicants than available spots.
“I think we’ve had participants from 36 different countries over the years,” says Grande. “The energy and enthusiasm the students bring is contagious—it inspires all of us. We’re really looking forward to it.”
Want to join next year’s European Space Camp? Apply here: spacecamp.no