MERIT BADGE COLLEGE - SPACE EXPLORATION (VIRTUAL)

WHAT:   Scouts learn about spacecraft and the history of their use while doing the requirements for the Space Exploration merit badge. They investigate the many aspects of venturing into space and consider how mankind might continue to explore the universe beyond our planet. They also find out about career opportunities related to space exploration.

 MEET YOUR COUNSELOR - Don Kern former Engineer with Raytheon missile programs (35 years) and Navy Pilot: single and multi engine, carrier qualed. Test Pilot, FAA Commercial Lic. Associated with Scouts for over 50 years. Don has taught Aviation or Space Exploration MB @ MBC for the past 15 years.

WHO: Open to all Scouts BSA members.

Narragansett Council Scouts and Adventure Card holders should select the ‘In-Council/Adventure Card’ option. All other scouts will select ‘Out of Council/Non-Adventure Card’

HOW:  This Merit Badge will be taught in a virtual classroom. The class has a capacity of 20 Scouts. Small classroom size provides all students with the opportunity to share and interact with the counselors and other Scouts. Scouts should be prepared to be challenged and to join the conversation! Participants who do not engage with the class may not receive credit for the badge. Scouts must be prompt for all badge sessions. Late participants may not receive credit for all requirements. Scouts must use a device with video to access this class.

Before beginning work on any merit badge, scouts are to have a discussion with their unit leader regarding the specific badge and counselor.

WHEN: This class will be held virtually over 2 sessions:

January 7, 2021- 5:00 PM - 6:45 PM EST

January 14, 2021- 5:00 PM - 6:45 PM EST

Scouts must attend both session to complete the offered requirements.

PREREQUISITES: 

1. Read the Space Exploration Merit Badge Handbook
2. Design a collector’s card, picture on the front and information on the back, about your favorite space pioneer. (requirement 2)
3. Build, launch, and recover a model rocket. Make a second launch to accomplish a specific objective. This can be a pre or post-requisite for merit badge completion. (requirement 3)

Optional Requirement not covered:
5.b. will not be utilized/reviewed

Suggested supplies/prep-work for students:
Attached reading, an un-inflated party balloon
There will be homework between sessions 1 & 2

All registered scouts will be mailed an exclusive 2021 Merit Badge College patch. You will have the opportunity to purchase additional patches at checkout.

After registering, login instructions will be sent the day prior of scheduled class to the email of whom created the registration. Council staff will connect on behalf of the counselor and provide credit for completed requirements. A valid BSA ID number is required. This assures that completed requirements are easily recorded.