Stars Shine Bright at Campagne School

The bedtime question of every child who ever heard the beloved, "Twinkle Twinkle" lullaby was uniquely answered for third grade students of Charles Campagne Elementary School in the Bethpage School District. Through a PTA sponsored program entitled "Night Sky," students had the opportunity to experience the stars and planets and learn "what they are" with the help of the Night Sky/Starlab.

The large inflatable Starlab Dome allows students to view clearly the night sky at even the brightest hour of day. Being able to view the planets and constellations up-close in a controlled environment, coupled with informative instruction, helped to convey current science curriculum to the Charles Campagne's third grade students.

"We do this workshop every year because it enforces what students are learning in their third grade science class," commented PTA Cultural Arts Committee member Barbara Hayes. "The children get to enter a giant portable planetarium and enjoy an excellent overview of the birth, structure and motion of the planets. They can discuss, in detail, specific planets that are currently visible in the night sky while inside the Starlab dome."

The interactive workshop combines the physical and social science aspects of astronomy, as well as the history of space exploration and its discoveries. "Our program strives to include and incorporate all parts of astronomy," said Starlab Educator Kim Barclay. "Night Sky/Starlab blends hard science, history and storytelling to make the presentation educational and enjoyable."

For the students, the workshop created an adventure as exciting as the night sky itself. All that was missing were the clouds and crickets.