
AI Space Tech with NVIDIA AI: Build, Code & Innovate for High Schoolers
Length: 2 week
Accreditation: Fully WASC Accredited (The Gold Standard in K-12 Education)
Prerequisite: None
DESCRIPTION
Launch your skills from the classroom to the edge of space! This 2-week program invites Teen Innovators to explore three distinct levels of technology: Drone Engineering, AI Autonomous Flight, and Space Exploration merged with Generative AI.
No experience needed—everyone learns at their own pace, with extra challenges for students who are ready for more.
Week 1: Drone Engineering & AI Autonomy The journey begins with flight dynamics. You will analyze aerodynamics and learn to control drones using Python code, scripting automated take-offs and precision maneuvers. Then, you will upgrade your skills by integrating Artificial Intelligence. Using an AI hardware system, you will teach your drone to "see" and make decisions using computer vision, enabling autonomous navigation through complex courses.
Week 2: Space Exploration & Generative AI with NVIDIA The mission reaches the stratosphere. You will design and launch a high-altitude space balloon using LoRaWAN communication technology. Simultaneously, you will dive into the cutting-edge world of Generative AI with NVIDIA. You will learn to harness advanced AI models to solve problems and create content, earning an official NVIDIA AI Certificate.
The Magic of Drones, AI & Space
We bridge the gap between mechanical engineering, intelligent autonomy, and aerospace technology.
- Engineer the Flight: Analyze the mechanics behind the machine. You will learn how motors and sensors achieve stability and write Python code to control flight paths.
- Computer Vision & Autonomy: A normal drone flies blindly; an AI drone sees. You will use AI hardware to teach the drone to recognize targets and avoid obstacles automatically.
- Space & Generative AI: Collaborate to launch a high-altitude balloon (up to 100,000 feet!), tracking it via GPS. Concurrently, explore Generative AI concepts using the NVIDIA curriculum, learning how to apply AI models in real-world scenarios.
Hardware Provided
The following hardware is provided for each student in camp:
- Week 1: Programmable Drone with PicoW (industry standard)
- Week 2: AI Space Drone with PicoW (industry standard) and integrated AI system. Space Tech Suite (Space Balloon, Solar Panel, GPS Module, LoRaWAN Communication Module(industry standard), Environmental Sensors) & NVIDIA AI setup.
- Note: Hardware is provided for camp use. You have the option to purchase a kit to take home for continued learning.
Modules
Part 1. Introduction to Drone Mechanics
Part 2. Basics of Aerodynamics for Drones
Part 3. Drone Motor Controls
Part 4. Python Coding for Drones
Part 5. Drone Programming & Debugging
Part 6. Introduction to AI
Part 7. AI-Based Drone Control
Part 8. Integration of AI and Camera for Autonomous Navigation
Part 9. Interactive Coding for AI Drones
Part 10. Introduction to LoRaWAN Space Communication
Part 11. NVIDIA AI System
Part 12. AI Space Exploration
What students will learn:
- Introduction to AI (Highschool Level)
- AI-Based Drone Design and Control (Highschool Level)
- Beginning to Advanced Drone Engineering (Highschool Level)
- Beginning to Advanced Drone Coding (Highschool Level)
- Python Programming (Highschool Level)
- Intermediate Holographic AR Design and Logic (Highschool Level)
- Space Communication with LoRaWAN (Highschool Level)
- NVIDIA AI for Real-Time Space Data Analysis (Highschool Level)
- UI/UX Design (Highschool Level)
- Debugging and Problem-Solving (Highschool Level)
- Design Thinking Process (based on Stanford University Design School curriculum)
Students need to follow the instructions and finish all necessary work to earn the NVIDIA AI certificate.
⚠️ Essential Safety & Readiness Guide
To ensure a safe environment, students must adhere to the following protocols:
- Strict Flight Zone (Indoor Only): Drones are regulated by the FAA. Students are strictly prohibited from flying drones outside the classroom or designated safety nets. Maturity and immediate compliance with instructor guidance are required.
- Personal Safety: Fast-spinning propellers require caution. Students with long hair must tie it back, and loose clothing or drawstrings must be tucked in to prevent tangling.
- Focus & Patience: Engineering and coding take practice. Be ready to try, troubleshoot, and try again.
