Mat

The MAT is used to train the astronauts on how to react if their aircraft goes into a spin.  A ride on the MAT is one of the highlights of Space Camp.

Justin was so brave, he volunteered to be the first person to try the simulator.

Next, Kyle took a ride.

Destiny enjoyed the experience.

Katie, the team leader, was thrilled to see my excitement as I hopped into the MAT chair.  I missed this experience last year and was not going to let the opportunity pass me by twice.

Surprisingly, I did not feel dizzy after being rotated in many directions.

Sunday, April 28th

The Alabama skies opened up keeping us drenched most of the day.  Since swimming was out of the question, the students decided to explore some of the indoor attractions.













                           Several brave students decided to try their skill on the rock wall

                                   Each climber must buckle themselves into a harness.

                                Justin worked his way up one of the most challenging courses.















  


           




                                                   Mike quickly reached the top of his course.

Destiny and Samantha were side-by-side during must of the climb. They both reached the top in no time.

 


The  students then enjoyed exploring the Black Hole Exploration exhibit.

After lunch it was time to check-in at the Habitat.  The campers received their room assignments and took time to settle in.

 

Making the bed on the top bunk proved to be was a challenging task.

All of the campers gathered for orientation and an explanation of the camp rules.

Team assignments were then announced.  Justin, Destiny and Kyle were placed on the Atlas team.  The campers met their team leaders and received their space camp handbook.

April 27, 2013

Justin and I arrived at the airport early Saturday morning ready for our adventure.






















After checking our luggage and bidding farewell to our families, we passed through security.

   

Justin relaxed in a massage chair and watched for our first plane to arrive.

The sky was clear as Justin lifted off on his first plane ride.   I marveled at his ability to identify ballparks and other landmarks far below.







Our trip was hectic providing little time between arrivals and departures.  In Philadelphia, we had to ride a shuttle between terminals.  In Charlotte, we experienced the odd feeling of walking on a moving sidewalk.

Before boarding our last plane of the day,  we were joined by the group traveling from WPSD.



















Six hours after beginning our journey,
we finally arrived in Huntsville.  A Space Camp counselor met our group at the airport.

                                                                                                              

   




The students could hardly wait check-in and go swimming.

The indoor and outdoor pools are separated by a glass wall above the water.