GIIS Dubai wrapped up its amazing AI Robotics and Astrophysics Summer Camp 2024, an extraordinary three-week programme that provided students with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to delve into the wonders of space science, robotics, and artificial intelligence. The camp, hosted in collaboration with NASA Science, brought together young minds from grades 1 to 12 for a journey of exploration and innovation.

Led by the team from the Global Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (GCIE) at GIIS, the camp was spearheaded by Mr. Siju Philip, a NASA Certified AeronautX Educator and AI Robotics Engineer; Ms. Sangeeta Solanki, an AI Coding Expert certified in Python and Oracle; and Ms. M. Anjana Rajendran, an experienced tech educator with an MCA. Together, they guided students through a series of hands-on projects, interactive sessions, and cutting-edge scientific explorations.

A Journey Through the Cosmos

The camp kicked off with a sense of excitement as students were introduced to the vastness of space and the possibilities of AI in space exploration. From the very first day, the camp was structured into three distinct groups based on grade levels: the Cosmic Explorers (Grades 1 & 2), the Astro Discoverers (Grades 3 to 8), and the Stellar Astronomers (Grades 9 to 12). Each group engaged in activities tailored to their age and level of understanding, making the learning experience both challenging and enjoyable.

Day-by-Day Highlights

Throughout the camp, students embarked on a series of exciting missions, each day filled with new discoveries and hands-on learning experiences:

• Day 1-4: Students explored the basics of space science, AI, and robotics. They constructed models of space stations, launched rockets, and designed robotic systems to study energy transfers and simulate lunar surface explorations. The wrap-up of the first week saw students testing rocket models, 3D designing robotic rovers, and experimenting with mineral detection on planetary surfaces.
• Day 5-8: The focus shifted to Mars missions and deep space exploration. Younger students built space gliders and compared Martian environments with Earth, while older students designed Martian rovers, developed AI systems for space monitoring, and even engineered water rockets. The Stellar Astronomers constructed a robotic arm for space excavations, showcasing their engineering prowess.
• Day 9-11: The camp reached its climax with students delving into the mysteries of Mars. They built Mars helicopters, designed Astrobots inspired by the movie Wall-E, and toured galaxies and exoplanets using VR technology. The Stellar Astronomers successfully rolled out an AI-powered Moon Rover, a significant achievement in their journey.
• Day 12: The final day was a celebration of all that had been accomplished. Students presented their projects, shared their discoveries, and reflected on the exciting journey they had undertaken. The day ended with a sense of achievement and anticipation for the future, as students were recognized for their efforts and encouraged to pursue careers in space science and AI.

Looking Ahead

As the camp concludes, the excitement among students and educators alike is palpable. The camp has not only sparked a passion for space science and robotics among the participants but has also set the stage for future explorations and innovations. With NASA internships and further career opportunities on the horizon, the future looks bright for these young space cadets.

GIIS Dubai continues to be at the forefront of educational innovation, empowering students to reach for the stars and beyond. The AI Robotics and Astrophysics Summer Camp 2024 is just one example of how the school is nurturing the next generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers.

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