Are cell phones and tablets permitted at camp?

Just as NASA schedules an astronaut’s personal communication time while on the International Space Station (ISS), Space Camp trainees have scheduled times when personal communication is permitted on cell phones and other mobile communication devices. Astronauts talk to friends and family when they are not working and when the ISS is in the correct range for a communications link. Internet and cellular network permitting, Space Camp trainees have designated time in their schedules in the morning when they are getting ready for their busy day and in the evening before they go to bed. To provide an environment in which our Camp trainees are immersed in the learning and fun of the program, we do not allow cell phones and other mobile communication devices during Camp program time. Details:

1. Cell phones and other mobile communication devices may be brought to Space Camp, but we do not encourage or recommend it, as Camp is a time to learn, grow and make new friends.
2. Cell phones and other mobile communication devices may be used for communication in the morning before programs begin and at night before lights out. Our program is action-packed, and this communication window is limited. For your information, we do not provide Wi-Fi in the Habitats, nor can we guarantee cellular coverage.
3. Cell phones and other mobile communication devices will be secured by the Camp trainee in their Camp-supplied locker with a Camp trainee-supplied lock during program hours and again at lights out until wake up the following morning.
4. For any Camp trainee not following the policy, Space Camp leadership will follow the established progressive discipline process of
   1. issuing a warning and
   2. calling home/parent, etc.
   Please understand a Camp trainee may be subject to removal from Camp programs if the issue cannot be resolved cooperatively.
5. Disposable cameras are allowed for photos, but we reserve the right to ask the Camp trainee to put the camera away if it is disruptive to the program or may impinge on the privacy of others. To provide a more authentic immersive experience and eliminate the pressure on trainees to photograph their favorite moments in Camp, we also offer an optional photo package for purchase to capture the Space Camp experience.
6. If a Camp trainee needs to call home at any time, he or she should alert the Space Camp Crew Trainer and arrangements will be made for a call. If you need to check on your Camp trainee, please call Camp Customer Service at (256) 721-7185.

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is not responsible for lost, stolen or broken electronic devices.