Earth and Space Science for Educators

Explore the rocky landscapes of the Moon, Mars, and other solar system locations... right in your terrestrial backyard... New Mexico! 

• White Sands National Park is the most space-visible landform over the American southwest. It is also an analog to the massive sand dune fields on Mars, Venus, Saturn’s moon Titan, and even Pluto.
• Valley of Fires Recreation Area at the Carrizozo Lava Flow is easily visible to private astronauts. This is also the 2nd-youngest lava flow in the continental US at “only” 5,200 years old. Run your finger on the ropy pahoehoe lava, explore lava tubes and deep fissures. Feel like you’re visiting the ancient volcanoes on the Moon, Mars, and even the giant asteroid Vesta.
• Kilbourne Hole Volcanic Maar Crater is where lava flashed groundwater to steam. Hunt for green olivine mantle xenoliths—literally alien rocks!

Visit Spaceport America, where private astronauts depart Earth with Virgin Galactic. Be inspired to adapt your experience to classroom activities simulating Apollo and Artemis moonwalks by astronauts. And… have more fun than your peers in teacher continuing education. This is much better than another online course!*

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This is a one-time special event with astrogeologist Dr. Kirby Runyon, and space educator Dr. Mark Wagner. Register NOW to be sure you don't miss out!

Your ticket INCLUDES the complete three-day tour for only $999.**

Meals, accomodations, and travel expenses are not included. Tickets are nonrefundable, but are transferable. If you can't make it, please invite a colleague to participate in your place. 

* NOTE: Final agenda subject to change based on evolving mission schedules, road conditions, weather, and other unavoidable factors. Agenda will be optimized for current conditions to provide the best experience possible when the dates arrive. Currently we have a STEM education tour of Spaceport America on Friday. Saturday we expect to visit the Space History Museum, Carrizozo lava flow, and White Sands National Park. Sunday plans include Kilbourne Hole Maar Crater and Aden Volcanic Crater. Register now to ensure your participation in the adventure!

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** NOTE: If you require lodging, please book your own room in the discounted block at the Best Western El Paso Airport Entrada Hotel. Be sure to book Thursday night because we start at 7 AM Friday morning. The experience will conclude by 5 PM on Sunday, but you should book that night as well if you wish to travel home on Monday. Book your room right away to ensure you make it into our discounted block. Call the hotel directly at (915) 772-3650 to get a special rate for the "Earth and Space" group.