In Huntsville, blind children from 31 states and eight countries ran NASA-style missions last week.
More than 140 students representing 31 states and several countries, including Belgium, Costa Rica, Canada, Israel, Liberia, Australia, Romania, and the Menominee Nation of Wisconsin, gathered in Huntsville to participate in Space Camp for Visually Impaired Students (SCIVIS), according to a report from WAFF 48 News.
Now in its 35th year, SCIVIS has introduced nearly 5,000 students to the excitement of space education through programs designed specifically for those with partial or total vision loss.
Each fall, the program adapts the Rocket Center’s traditional Space Camp and Aviation Challenge curriculum so that all participants can experience the same range of simulations and team missions as their sighted peers.
Throughout the week, campers engaged in hands-on learning that included SCUBA diving, high ropes courses, and simulated space missions modeled after real NASA experiences.
Advanced participants completed an extended three-hour mission, applying their training in navigation, communication, and teamwork. Others enjoyed the thrill of launching rockets and exploring the fundamentals of flight and astronautics in a collaborative environment.
To ensure full accessibility, coordinators and instructors equipped every station with specialized tools, including braille materials, large-print manuals, and tactile labeling on control panels. WAAY also reported that more than 60 teachers of the visually impaired and mobility instructors worked alongside camp staff to support students throughout the program.
These adaptations made it possible for every camper — regardless of the level of visual impairment — to participate in every mission, from commanding a shuttle launch to navigating complex ropes courses.
Many of the participants may have never met another visually impaired student before arriving in Huntsville, making the shared experience of teamwork, friendship, and discovery a defining part of the week.
At the close of camp, each student received a braille certificate and special awards marking their achievements.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
