Comets and the International Space Station are just a few of the things students will have an opportunity to explore while attending summer day camp at Wheeling Jesuit University's (WJU) Challenger Learning Center (CLC).

With the support of Wheeling Island Racetrack and Gaming Center, the CLC will host "Catch a Comet" summer day camp in June for students in grades fourth through seventh. Wheeling Island Racetrack and Gaming Center has donated $2,000 to the CLC to help defray the cost of five day-long sessions.

CLC Director Nancy Sturm said, " The Challenger Learning Center is excited about forming the partnership with Wheeling Island Racetrack and Gaming Center, making it more affordable for students to attend the summer day camp. Having local businesses involved in CLC programs shows a commitment to Ohio Valley youth."

Wheeling Island Racetrack and Gaming Center Director of Human Resources Bill Hare said he is pleased that the company can help expose children to this type of learning program that will enhance what students do in the classroom. "We support the educational efforts of the Challenger Learning Center for inspiring young minds with an interest in the space program," Hare said. "We hope that by providing some funding for the summer day camp we will assist the CLC in bringing the space program to area children."

CLC Assistant Director Patti Kota explained that campers will fill the roles of mission specialists and astronauts as they work together on a daring simulated mission to explore comets. "Through teamwork and problem solving techniques, students will gain new insight into problems faced by NASA scientists and receive information about current comet exploration missions," Kota said.

In addition, students attending the day camp will have the opportunity to visit a trailer that replicates the International Space Station when it stops in Wheeling. The trailer is operated by NASA's Johnson Space Center. "Students will see the habitation, laboratory modules, as well as learn how astronauts live and work in space," Kota said.

The day camp will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily on June 13, 17, 19, 21 and 25. The cost is $15 per student. Reservations are due two weeks prior to the program. For more information call the CLC at 304-243-2029.