The Boy Scouts of America Supernova program is a unique introduction to STEM fields. Scouts enrolled in the program participate in activities related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, outside of normal Pack meetings.

The Scouts also are shown how STEM appears in everyday life around them and throughout the entire world.

Recently nine Downingtown Cub Scouts received their Supernova awards for completing the rigorous program. It took Arjun, Audrey, Avi, Charlotte, Finnegan, Josh, Judah, Julia, and Makalyn, all Cub Scouts with Hopewell Pack 8, over seven months to meet all the requirements.

This year’s program kicked off at West Chester University’s Environmental Science Laboratory. Dr. Lorenzo Cena and his team taught the Scouts the scientific method.  The Scouts then applied the scientific method on several experiments. One of the experiments involved detecting low levels of radiation with a Geiger counter. 

The Scouts visited the Ashland Nature Center where they assessed the quality of tributary. They measured the pH of the stream and visually inspected the water.

They then took to the water with buckets and nets to catch insect larvae. The Scouts caught mayflies, stoneflies, caddisflies, and dragonflies, indicating a healthy water way.

In the winter months, the Scouts learned about friction and inertia using the curriculum and toys provided by Hess Corporation. Through several fun experiments, the Scouts were able to understand how road surfaces, road conditions, and road grade affect the fuel efficiency and traction of vehicles. 

Outside of group activities, each Scout had to research four to six scientists. Among the favorites were Einstein, Edison, Newton, Lovelace, and Curie. The Scouts also had to conduct individual research at home related to geometry, accounting, practical skills like keeping track of daily activities.

All the individual work was presented to the group to help the Scouts feel more comfortable presenting their research and ideas to others later in life.

Read more about the Supernova program at the Chester County Council, Boy Scouts of America.