For Dr Madelyn Cabra and Carlos Hernandez from Hialeah. Florida, a vacation that’s out of this world isn’t just a figure of speech—it’s a family tradition. They’ve made Space Camp an annual family vacation with their sons Matthew (8), Christopher (11), and Christopher (11). Madelyn recalls that the program began four years ago. “Carlos was told about this program by someone from another state. We joined the waiting list, looked it up and in 2021 he traveled with our oldest child for the first time. Since then, I’ve taken my family every year.”
This year, all four family members signed up for Family Space Camp—a three-day program in Huntsville, AlabamaThe program allows children as young seven to train like astronauts while their parents are by their side. Madelyn: “The hands-on educational aspect was what attracted us.” “We didn’t just want to go on vacation—we wanted to experience something together, to learn something new.”
Why choose Rocket Boosters over Room Service?
The appeal of a getaway to a beach resort or an amusement park is not limited to families who choose these destinations. Space Camp Hands-on learning was the main attraction. Madelyn explains that what drew her in was its educational and interactive quality. We were thrilled to have the chance to learn more about space, while also being able to test simulators and complete missions. We even got to launch rockets we had built ourselves.
The Family Space Camp is a program that allows children to participate with their parents. It is available for children aged seven and up. The experience takes place at the US Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, which houses not only the camp itself but also one of the most comprehensive collections of space artifacts and exhibits in the country. It’s amazing to be able to do this kind of training and learning at a place that real astronauts used for their missions.
Plan your takeoff
The family had to start planning early because of the limited number of program slots. Madelyn explains that she registered for the Family Camp about 10 months prior to their arrival. The Family Camp schedule will be released in advance but spaces are limited. Although this was not the first time they had done it, they learned a few tricks. “I always bring the basics—clothes, toiletries, chargers—but we never forget our flight suits,” she laughs. We bought them during a previous trip, and we wear them with pride at graduation. She recommends that anyone staying in the Habitat dormitories on site bring a combination locker lock, S-hooks to hang towels and comfortable shoes. You’re going to be on your feet all day, so comfortable shoes are essential. This year they chose to stay at the Marriott adjacent instead of the camp’s bunk-style accommodations. It gave us more privacy and rest in the evenings. This was good for the children.”
Inside the mission: a typical day at Space Camp
Space Camp has a full-on day from the very beginning. Madelyn says, “We begin with breakfast, and then move straight into the hands-on activities.” They include simulated space missions and moonwalk experiences (which mimic lunar gravity), as well as the G-Force Accelerator (MAT), the Multi-Axis Trainer, and rocket-building workshops.
Families will watch videos about the International Space Station between launches and missions. They can also explore NASA tech displays and attend briefings held in mock control rooms. She says, “It is immersive.” You feel like you are part of an actual training team.
