Programs
The McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center Offers Various Programs Related to Astronomy, Aviation, Earth, and Space Science
School Visits
Each year, thousands of New England students visit the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center for a memorable field trip. Our hands-on programs enhance educational curricula, providing fun and valuable knowledge. With interactive exhibits and knowledgeable staff, we foster curiosity and exploration. We look forward to welcoming students to learn and inspire their future.
Outreach Programs
Our outreach programs aim to inspire imagination and cultivate a passion for space and science for all ages. We offer engaging, hands-on experiences tailored for your classroom, library, workplace, church, or birthday party. Explore our various workshops below, designed to ignite curiosity, enhance understanding, and empower individuals to become critical thinkers and problem solvers.
Scout Visits
Our Scout programs are designed to spark curiosity and guide Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, and Cub Scouts as they work toward their Astronomy and Space Science badges. Through engaging activities, planetarium shows, and hands-on exploration, scouts gain an unforgettable experience that connects them to the wonders of the universe.
Super Stellar Fridays
On the 1st Friday of each month, visitors are invited to enjoy an engaging evening dedicated to exploring the wonders of science alongside knowledgeable Discovery Center educators and special guest speakers. This enlightening experience includes captivating live programs, immersive planetarium shows, and opportunities for sky viewing facilitated by the NH Astronomical Society, making it a memorable event for all participants.
Alex Higgins Memorial Space Camp Scholarship
Train to be an astronaut, an airplane pilot, or a robotics engineer in a five-day immersive, intensive, educational, and fun camp at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center! Since 2001, more than 70 New Hampshire children and teens have traveled to U.S. Space Camp & Rocket Center, in Huntsville, AL, for a week of simulated astronaut or pilot training, thanks to the Alex Higgins Memorial Space Camp Scholarship. And three more will get to go in 2026! Would you like to be one of them?
Homeschool Program
Join us for an out-of-this-world homeschool adventure! Activities are designed to be active, hands-on, open-ended explorations that require creative, out-of-the-box thinking—the kind of thinking that has always fueled the imaginations of scientists, artists, makers, mathematicians, and creators.
