Merit Badge Camp-in: Astronomy

MOSI is hosting a Merit Badge Camp-in: Astronomy at the Saunders Planetarium in Tampa, starting Saturday, January 23, 2027, at 7 PM and running through Sunday morning, January 24, until 9 AM. It's a full overnight for scouts, built around the Astronomy merit badge workshop.

The camp-in takes place inside the Saunders Planetarium, which MOSI describes as the second-largest digital dome planetarium in the country. Its shows run about 45 minutes and pair a live star show guided by MOSI space experts with an immersive movie of the night sky. The session includes the Astronomy merit badge workshop, a light snack, an overnight stay at the museum, and a light breakfast the next morning. Scouts also get a MOSI Fun Patch and general admission to the museum after the event.

There are a few logistics to keep in mind. At least one adult chaperone is required for every four children, so you'll need to coordinate your group accordingly. Registration closes Thursday, January 7, 2027, so you'll want to get your spots locked in well before the event date.

Pricing is $48 per scout and $36 per adult, with a discount for MOSI members: $40 per member scout and $30 per member adult. The whole thing runs from 7 PM Saturday to 9 AM Sunday at the Saunders Planetarium inside the Museum of Science and Industry in Tampa.