Archaeological dig site with a rectangular excavation pit, tools, buckets, and a canopy; two people work under bright sunlight surrounded by vegetation.

CCAMP

CAPE CANAVERAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL MITIGATION PROJECT 2026

Season 10: A decade of archaeological discovery at America’s spaceport!

When:

Four people wearing backpacks walk along a sandy beach under a partly cloudy sky, with the ocean on their left and sparse vegetation on their right.

Spring Semester 2026, Jan 12-April 27

Mondays and Wednesdays, 8:30 AM to 2:20 PM
Plus possible volunteer days on Fridays or Saturdays

Where:

Cape Canaveral Space Force Station

Academic Credit:

ANT4824 (undergraduates) ANG 5824 (graduates; 3-credit-hours
• Counts toward restricted elective for anthropology majors
• General upper-division credit hours for non-majors

Sponsored By:

Cultural Resources Management Project, SLD 45, USSF
Department of Anthropology, University of Central Florida

Project and Course Overview:

The Cape Canaveral Archaeological Mitigation Project is a multi-year partnership between the United States Space Force and the UCF Department of Anthropology. We conduct intensive archaeological research and documentation of sites threatened by sea level rise from climate change.

This course involves conducting intensive Phase I archaeological surveys and limited Phase II excavation of multi-component archaeological sites. You will learn basic archaeological techniques and be required to write a research report and present a poster at the UCF Amy Zeh HIP Student Showcase on aspects of the this year’s research. Other requirements include readings. Attendance is mandatory.

  • Prehistoric Archaeology: Two previously unrecorded sites
  • Historic Archaeology: Various historical components
  • Aerospace Archaeology: Survey to locate B-52 airplane wreckage site
  • Additional Testing: Other locations as schedule allows

Physical Requirements and Field Conditions

Field work is hard! You will face heat, cold, insects, snakes, alligators and virtually impenetrable morasses of dense vegetation. There are no restroom facilities on site (requires a short drive). You will be responsible for providing your own water, sunscreen, and other personal supplies. Equipment will be provided. To do fieldwork, you must:

A person with dirt-stained hands holds a small, irregularly shaped, reflective object, possibly a mineral or artifact, over a table with plastic bags and other items.

• Be able to lift 50+ lbs
• Walk long distances through dense vegetation and wetlands
• Dig with shovels for extended periods
• Standing and kneel for extended periods
• Walk on slippery and muddy surfaces
• Climb in and out of deep test units

How to Apply!

APPLICATION DEADLINE: FRIDAY OCTOBER 24, 2025

Apply through Handshake UCF. Search for job #10278455.

Space Force security regulations require participants to be US citizens. A security clearance is also required. Once notified of acceptance, all security forms MUST be submitted by Friday, December 5, 2025.

Want More Information?

For UCF requirements, registration information, and course information, please contact Dr. Neil Duncan or Dr. Stacy Barber in the Department of Anthropology. For technical or Space Force related questions, please contact Thomas Penders, SLD 45 Cultural Resources Manager at pendarch@yahoo.com of thomas.penders@spaceforce.mil.