From July 14–18, 2025, under the direction of IDEAS² Co-I Dr. Heather Domjan, the University of Houston hosted the 2025 Mars Rover Explorers Summer Camp, engaging 65 students in grades 3–8 from 16 Houston-area school districts.
Guided by eight UH undergraduate and graduate mentors, students participated in Mars-themed engineering challenges, including:
- Designing lunar landers
- Building Mars rover prototypes
- Developing habitat blueprints
The program also featured hands-on STEM learning stations on topics such as space science, laser technology, and microscopy using a scanning electron microscope to examine lunar regolith.
A highlight of the week included a visit to Space Center Houston and NASA Johnson Space Center, offering authentic exposure to aerospace careers. The camp concluded with a student showcase and awards ceremony, reinforcing STEM skills, teamwork, and career awareness.