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Carnival Cruise Line is taking exploration to the next level.
The cruise line is partnering with the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex to launch an educational space program for children with activities inspired by NASA science. The activities are part of Carnival’s Camp Ocean science and discovery program.
Space Cruisers will make its Carnival Celebration debut this November on its inaugural voyage from Miami. The program will come to the Space Coast aboard Mardi Gras in time for the holiday season. Various activities from the program will be implemented across the fleet in time for spring break.
![Children ages 6 to 11 can follow in the footsteps of NASA engineers to build their own paper rocket as part of Carnival Cruise Line's new Space Cruisers program.](https://www.gannett-cdn.com/presto/2022/10/10/PBRE/ffa58db2-8340-456e-a894-96bc0ab2da40-Space_Cruisers.jpg?width=660&height=441&fit=crop&format=pjpg&auto=webp)
NASA-supported curriculum is designed to be educational and fun. Kids will be able to explore the universe with a variety of hands-on experiences, including completing “missions” to earn a special themed patch.
One area will feature an illuminated space wall showing the planets, as well as an illuminated constellation display on the ceiling. Other activities include building and racing Mars Rovers, designing and testing the physics of bridges, and learning how objects orbit in space.
Highlights of the Space Cruisers program include:
- Optimal orbit (ages 2-8) – Kids will learn about gravity and how planets, satellites and other objects move through space in a hands-on experience with a giant trampoline.
- Design Your Own Mission Patch (ages 6-11) – Kids can discover their artistic side, joining the long tradition of astronauts designing their own take-home mission.
- Space Cruiser Missile Workshop (ages 6-11) – Kids can build their own paper rocket to fly high into the sky.
- Mars base connection (family friendly) – Guests can learn what it takes to build a base on Mars and come along with family members to create their own.
- ASTRO! (family friendly) – Guests will have the chance to win prizes by calling the constellations in a space-themed BINGO game.
In a news release, Melissa Mahaffey, director of youth experience for Carnival Cruise Line, said, “Kids are always looking to explore new things, and this program gives them the opportunity to discover many of the wonderful aspects of space through fun activities. while they take away the unique lessons.”
Christina LaFortune is Entertainment and TgIF Editor at FLORIDA TODAY. Follow her on Facebook at facebook.com/christinalafortune, on Twitter at @lafortunecor email her at [email protected].
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