Federation of Galaxy Explorers

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Federation of Galaxy Explorers Federation of Galaxy Explorers (emblem).jpg
Federation of Galaxy Explorers

The Federation of Galaxy Explorers (FOGE) is a US youth group seeking to "...inspire and educate kids in space related science and engineering. Galaxy Explorers was created to prepare children for the future; a future that advances a space faring civilization." [1]

Contents

Philosophy

FOGE operates using the following guiding principles for its members, called Guide Stars:

School Year Program

Similar in some respects to Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, FOGE sponsors monthly after-school (or evening) "Mission Team" meetings and periodic field trips, where adult volunteers teach space subjects and lead the participants in projects in space science, earth science, engineering and rocketry.

Another primary theme - Space Citizenship - teaches the role of government, the power of citizens in a democracy, the promise of space expressed in art, writing, history, and business. Mission Team members wear uniform shirts and are rewarded for participation and achievements with ribbons, patches, medals, and certificates. Awards are an integral part of the program providing children self-esteem through achievement and recognition.

Summer Program

Space-themed summer camps are held, offering younger participants the chance to design and build a simulated "moonbase". High-school aged participants have the opportunity to build and launch rockets with simulated satellites (instrument packages) that can reach altitudes of up to 2 miles, and are recovered by parachute while transmitting real-time telemetry data on position, attitude, temperature and other parameters.

Interactive Software

FOGE aims to support and teach children about space. One method of doing so is through interactive video games, such as MoonBaseOne, which has had over 30,000 players.

History

FOGE began in 2002 with pilot programs in Colorado, Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Virginia. It has since expanded to Montana, Texas, California, and New Mexico, and supports over 15,000 participants.

Benefits

The Federation of Galaxy Explorers was incorporated in the state of Maryland as a 501(c)3 non profit organization. The organization seeks to inspire and educate kids in space related science and engineering. Galaxy Explorers was created to prepare children for the future; a future that advances a space faring civilization. Objectives:

The Way Forward

In 2002, Galaxy Explorers pilot programs began at pilot schools in Colorado, Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Virginia, where we conducted a summer space camp for 150 children. In less than five years we hosted 5000 children in 25 summer camps, after school, and evening programs. We hosted an additional 15,000 children in Special Events. We expanded the program to MT, TX, PA, MO, NJ, and NM. To accomplish this expansion, Galaxy Explorers has established partnerships with government agencies, businesses, and non-profit organizations. In addition, the effort is strongly supported by Congressional Members and staff.

See also

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