Exploring the Skies

Highlights from the Fourth Annual Scout Saturday at the National Naval Aviation Museum

On September 7, the National Naval Aviation Museum opened its doors to a select group of young aviation enthusiasts for its fourth annual Scout Saturday. This highly anticipated event, held from 9 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., brought together almost 45 Scouts aged 11 to 17 for an immersive experience that met all the requirements for the Aviation Merit Badge.

Scout-Saturday-2024-1
Scout-Saturday-2024-2
Scout-Saturday-2024-3
Scout-Saturday-2024-4
Scout-Saturday-2024-5

A Day of Discovery and Learning

The day was packed with engaging activities designed to deepen the Scouts’ understanding of aviation. Highlights included:

  1. Aerodynamics and Navigation Workshops: Scouts delved into the principles of flight and navigation, gaining hands-on experience in these fundamental aspects of aviation.
  2. F-35 Flight Simulation: The excitement soared as participants took to the virtual skies, piloting the advanced F-35 in a realistic flight simulation.
  3. Careers in Aviation Presentations: Scouts had the opportunity to hear from professionals in the field, offering insights into various career paths within aviation.
  4. Foam Plate Glider Design and Construction: Creativity took flight as Scouts designed and built their own foam plate gliders, learning about the science behind aerodynamics in a fun and interactive way.
  5. Museum Tour: The day also featured a guided tour of the museum, providing participants with a deeper appreciation of naval aviation history and technology.
A Day to Remember

The feedback from Scouts and their families was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their enthusiasm for the hands-on activities and the opportunity to learn about aviation in such an engaging setting. The event was a testament to the National Naval Aviation Museum’s commitment to inspiring the next generation of aviators and engineers.

Looking Forward

As Scout Saturday continues to grow, it remains a standout event for young aviation enthusiasts. We look forward to next year’s event and the continued exploration of the skies with future generations of Scouts. Until then, keep flying high and keep your curiosity aloft!