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International Space Weather Camp 2026

Featured graphic for ISWC 2026 showing a purple galaxy space background with an astronaut illustration, the FTPP logo, and a cartoon character in a helmet. Large text reads “ISWC 2026” with the tagline “Your Space Weather Adventure Is On The Way!”

The International Space and Weather Camp (ISWC) has impacted hundreds of students over the past fifteen years bringing an innovative learning experience. This camp gives the student the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of space physics, specifically how the Sun affects Earth’s space and upper atmosphere and how those effects can influence the modern technologies society depends on. It also highlights its international scope and its dedication to expanding global space weather education.

Fernando Salinas smiling outdoor.
“I am originally from Comayagua, Honduras. Aerospace engineering is not yet an established field in my country, and being one of eight U.S. participants selected for this program means a great deal to me, not only as a professional opportunity, but as a chance to show younger Honduran students that this kind of work is within reach. I am honored to represent that path.”
-Fernando Salinas, UA student


ISWC began with a special connection between Huntsville and northern Germany, carried forward today through the partnership between FTPP (The University of Alabama in Huntsville) and the DLR at the University of Rostock. Because of the long‑standing ties between Huntsville and the state of Mecklenburg‑Vorpommern, shaped by decades of work in rockets, missiles, and eventually human spaceflight, the International Space Weather Camp was created to build on this shared history and strengthen communication between two regions that play a major role in the space industry.


During this four-week program, a group of students experience immersive learning through engaging lectures and hands-on projects. ISWC offers a rare, two‑part international opportunity: first at The University of Alabama in Huntsville, where students explore cutting‑edge research, and then students will travel to the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in Neustrelitz, Germany, where they expand their global perspective. The camp is fully funded, covering travel, meals, and weekend excursions, ensuring every participant can focus entirely on learning and discovery.

“I’m most excited about the opportunity to explore a new country! I’m incredibly grateful for the ISWC allowing me to have this experience, and can’t wait to learn from a new culture.”
-Katherine Shipman, UAH student
Katherine Shipman smiling outdoors in front of UAH campus building.

This year, sixteen students from around the world were selected to participate in this year’s program, representing a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences. The students were selected for the program because of their strong interest in space science and their impressive academic achievements.

  • July 6–10 Students from Germany and the Southeastern U.S. arrive in Huntsville, Alabama and spend the week on the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) campus.
  • July 10–13 Students travel to Orlando, Florida to visit the Kennedy Space Center and explore U.S. spaceflight history.
  • July 17–31 Students continue the program at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in Neustrelitz, Germany, participating in lectures, research activities, and cultural experiences.


By bringing together students from around the globe to build real research skills, and see its impact on modern technology, the program leaves them with an experience they won’t forget. We look forward to meeting each of these students soon and supporting them as they grow both personally and professionally throughout this unforgettable experience.