Scouts in the Champaign area will have an opportunity to explore the stars this fall as the Staerkel Planetarium at Parkland College hosts a series of interactive badge workshops designed for both Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts.

The hands-on sessions will guide participants through the official requirements for earning space and astronomy-related badges, offering an educational experience far beyond a traditional planetarium show.

Girl Scouts can participate in the Space Science Badge Workshops on two separate evenings. Daisies and Brownies will meet Oct. 29, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., while Juniors, Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors will attend Oct. 30, also from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The cost is $7 per Scout and includes a badge booklet and patch.

The Boy Scouts of America Astronomy Merit Badge Workshop will take place Nov. 3, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Registration is $6 per Scout and includes a merit badge booklet.

Organizers emphasize that these workshops are interactive educational sessions—not just a show. Scouts are asked to bring a pencil or pen along with a flashlight covered in red plastic or cellophane. Each workshop will cover the official badge requirements, and participants can later submit their completed booklets to their local Scout office for certification.

Advance registration is required; no sign-ups will be accepted at the door. The deadline to register is one week before the selected workshop. Each Scout and leader must complete a separate registration form online.

The planetarium requires a minimum number of participants to host each session. If that threshold is not met, refunds will be issued.

For details or to register, visit planetarium.parkland.edu or call 217-351-2567.