Aerospace Education
Aerospace Education is a pillar of CAP and here at the St Cloud Composite Squadron we strive to offer not only a stellar AE program but also a variety of opportunities to earn recognition for the accomplishments that are done through the program. Some of the opportunities that we offer are listed below.
Orientation Flights
The cadet orientation flight program shares with cadets the thrill of flying. Every CAP cadet under age 18 is eligible for five flights in a powered aircraft (usually a single-engine Cessna), five flights in a glider aircraft, and an unlimited number of backseat flights when conditions allow.
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Orientation flights are always free to cadets.
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Survey data has repeatedly shown that the #1 reason youth become CAP cadets is an interest in flying
Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS)
CAP offers opportunities to work with drones, used in Search and Rescue, and Quadcopters.
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Cadets can learn to fly remote-controlled quadcopters while learning more about the dynamics and forces of flight and improving skills like hand-eye coordination, motor skills, and teamwork activities.
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Learn about potential careers in the use of small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS) or remotely-piloted aircraft (RPA).
Model Rocketry Program
CAP's Model Rocketry program is an achievement program for cadets interested in the science, technology, and flight of model rockets. The program builds on the foundation of Aerospace Dimensions, Module 4 Rockets, to introduce cadets to the hobby and science of model rocketry. It begins with simple alternative-power models and progressively challenges cadets with more advanced models. Cadets go through three stages of class room studies and tests before going into the field and launching rockets.
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The Redstone Stage reviews the history of rocketry and its great pioneers, to include Robert Goddard and Werhner Von Braun.
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The Titan Stage details the physical laws which govern objects on the Earth, in the air and in space above us.
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The Saturn Stage presents information on trigonometry for altitude tracking, and physics of impulse and thrust associated with solid propellant motors typically used in model rocketry.
Upon successful completion of all levels and rocket launches Cadets who complete the written and performance requirements for each of the 3 stages, as certified by their unit commander, will be awarded the Cadet Model Rocketry Badge.
Cyber Badge
While participating in the Cyber Patriot Program Cadets can also earn the Cadet Cyber Badge. CAP is participating in a timely technological initiative, Cyber Patriot, the National Youth Cyber Education Program, sponsored by the Air Force Association, to educate the next generation of patriotic cyber defenders of our nation's security and infrastructure. This highly competitive and technological event is training a new generation to ensure America is prepared to defend its national security from the air, land, sea, space and cyberspace.
For more information on the program click here: Cyber Patriot Program
(This link will open a new browser window outside the CAP.GOV domain.)
STEM Badge
We will be offering opportunities for the STEM Badge to be earned through participation in drone flight, use of flight simulators, and hands on activities in Aerospace Education. Please check with the Aerospace Education Officer to see how to get involved with the STEM activities at home!
Civil Air Patrol’s awarding-winning aerospace education program promotes aerospace, aviation and STEM-related careers with engaging, standards-based, hands-on curriculum and activities. It shapes the experiences and aspirations of youth both in and outside of CAP’s cadet program.
