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June 1, 2024

We Are GO! For Launch

Looking for a fun and exciting family activity?
Sign up for Kopernik’s 15th annual RocketFest.

Kopernik’s popular RocketFest returns on Saturday, June 1. When you register for RocketFest 2024, you will select to pick up a Rocket Kit either at Kopernik Observatory on May 17, from 7 pm to 8 pm, or at Barnes and Noble in Vestal on May 18, from 10 am to Noon. You will build it at home over the next two weeks. Wherever possible, Kopernik will provide you access to video instructions for your kit and we will also offer live construction consultation over Zoom on May 25. Among the benefits of working on your rocket at home is that you can take your time to decorate your rocket with paint or markers and give it time to dry before assembling.

If you buy your rocket after May 18, you need to come to the Observatory to pick it up. Please call 607 748 3685 x 303 to arrange it.

On June 1, Launch Day, we have 30-minute launch windows reserved by families when they registered You will come up to Kopernik at the time you selected when you registered and have your rocket inspected by Kopernik’s rocket engineers. If your rocket looks ready for flight, we will load the engine and your child will head over to the launch pad where they will press a button that sends their rocket skyward. If your rocket happens to need some repairs, we’ll have repair stations available. Local rocket expert, Les Bradshaw, will have a display with a small portion of the rockets he has built during his career.

We will offer eleven different rocket models:

Three beginner models are good for first-time builders and young children.

Four intermediate models are good for older children and those with previous rocket-building experience.

When registering, select a Basic Rocket and you can choose between the beginner or intermediate rocket models when you pick up your rocket kit.

Four advanced models are good for those comfortable with more complex designs and higher-powered engines.

Rocketfest is an excellent opportunity to spend time with your child to work on a project together and we hope you will join us this year.

Click on the Online Registration link below to select your Launch Window and what type of rocket (Basic or Advanced).

Online Registration (preferred)

RocketFest 2024 Paper Registration Form

Note: if you register with a paper form, we need to confirm the time slot is still available when we receive your form.