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https://early-bird.msudenver.edu/summer-science-institute-rocket-launch-where-stem-takes-off

Supporting Students

PHOTOS: Summer Science Institute rocket launch

Middle school students apply their STEM skills in this exciting, hands-on activity.

Josh Geurink

Metropolitan State University of Denver is again hosting middle school students for the 2025 Summer Science Institute, a series of hands-on, team-oriented day camps on the Auraria Campus. Sixth through eighth grade students explore fun applications of math and science through daily programs taught by MSU Denver faculty, aligned with Colorado content standards. The institute fosters STEM identity, helps students retain knowledge from the previous school year, and provides daily lunch in a fully supervised environment.

Summer Science Institute students launch their rockets outside

Summer Science Institute students launch their rockets outside on Friday, June 27, 2025. Photo by Josh Geurink

MSU Denver Summer Science Institute students Kendal Sandoval, left, and Oberklain Jauregui attach fins to their rockets.

MSU Denver Summer Science Institute students Kendal Sandoval, left, and Oberklain Jauregui attach fins to their rockets. Photo by Josh Geurink

MSU Denver Summer Science Institute student Isabella Lerma attaches fins to her rocket.

MSU Denver Summer Science Institute student Isabella Lerma attaches fins to her rocket. Photo by Josh Geurink

Brooke Evans, Ph.D., from the College of Aerospace, Computing, Engineering, and Design, and mathematics professor Henricus Bouwmeester, Ph.D., guide students in constructing their water rockets.

Brooke Evans, Ph.D., from the College of Aerospace, Computing, Engineering, and Design, and mathematics professor Henricus Bouwmeester, Ph.D., guide students in constructing their water rockets. Photo by Josh Geurink

MSU Denver Summer Science Institute student Kaleb Dapa attaches the cone to his water rocket

MSU Denver Summer Science Institute student Kaleb Dapa attaches the cone to his water rocket. Photo by Josh Geurink

Summer Science Institute leaders prepare rockets for launch.

Summer Science Institute leaders prepare rockets for launch. Photo by Josh Geurink

Summer Science Institute student Oberklain Jauregui pressurizes his rocket before launching.

Summer Science Institute student Oberklain Jauregui pressurizes his rocket before launching. Photo by Josh Geurink

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