HUNTSVILLE — The three-year partnership between the U.S. Space & Rocket Center and the social media giant Meta, made it possible for more than 30 students from the Madison County area to attend Space Camp this week.

A $300,000 grant from Meta provided youths, who might not otherwise have been able to do so, the opportunity to attend Space Camp, Aviation Challenge and U.S. Cyber Camp.

The 34 students are from Huntsville and Madison City Schools, the Boys & Girls Clubs of North Alabama and Girls, Inc. Since 2021, 50 students have attended Space Camp and U.S. Cyber Camp thanks to the partnership.

“Meta is proud to call Huntsville home and to partner with organizations making a positive difference in the community,” said Katie Comer, head of community development with Meta. “Space Camp at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center is a unique educational experience only available here in Huntsville, and we’re thrilled to provide this learning opportunity to local students.”

Meta, formerly Facebook, has been in Huntsville since 2018, when the company broke ground on its data center.

“We are grateful to Meta for providing the funding for these deserving children to attend our programs,” said Dr. Kimberly Robinson, Rocket Center CEO and executive director. “Students from around the world attend our Space Camp programs as they explore their passion for science and technology, and this investment helps us give those in our own neighborhood that same opportunity to launch their futures.”

Members of the Huntsville data center team will visit the Rocket Center today to see the Meta-sponsored campers taking part in activities.