Chabot Space & Science Center

The Chabot Space & Science Center is a continuation and expansion of the old Oakland Observatory offering astronomy and science education programs for more than 115 years. Their mission is to be "an innovative teaching and learning center focusing on astronomy and the space sciences and the interrelationships of all sciences." The Center features an observatory, a planetarium, the Challenger Learning Center, a Discovery Lab for kids ages 7 and under, and a 70-foot dome theater.

Camps:
The Space Explorers summer camps are hands-on and activity-based. Campers are able to take advantage of the wealth of resources available throughout the Center. Summer camp themes include: Climate Quest, Lego Robotics, Video Game Design, Outdoor Challenges, Space Challenger, Rocket Lab, Coasters and Contraptions, and more .

2013 Week-long Summer Sessions:
Dates: June 24–August 2
Ages: entering grades K–8
Days/Times: Mondays through Fridays, 9am–4pm (full day), 9am–noon or 1pm–4pm (half day)
Cost: $229–$239 (full day) or $378–$398 (half day); early bird, sibling, friend, and multiple-session discounts available; $35 optional lunch per week
Extended Care: 8am–9am ($30 per week of $10 per day) and 4pm–6pm ($60 per week or $20 per day)

Celebrations: Chabot is a great place to host a birthday party. Party packages cost $189–$375 for up to 20 guests; additional guests are extra. Packages include general admission, use of a private room for 1.5 hours, and a Planetarium or MegaDome show. Visitors have full access to all exhibits. You can bring your own food but you can order from the Celestial Cafe. You must supply your own cake, decorations, and party supplies. Call (510) 336-7311 for more information.

Teens: Science enthusiasts can join the year-round program for students who represent Chabot Space & Science Center on-site and throughout the greater Oakland area. Participants benefit from fun science enrichment classes, leadership training, volunteer opportunities, and paid internships.