Wonders of space inspire students at special camp
Astronaut training was one of the hot topics explored by the next generation of space enthusiasts at a special camp supported by experts from Leicester.
Students took part in exciting hands-on activities during the latest Space Camp on the Shetland Islands which was supported by the University of Leicester’s £100 million science and innovation park, .
The five-day camp took place at SaxaVord – Europe’s first fully licensed vertical launch Spaceport – in collaboration with the Jon Egging Trust and a celebration of the event was held this week.
Space Park Leicester Education and Outreach Manager Josh Barker said: “The students had a brilliant time learning about life in space, the properties of different planets and astronaut training.
“They also took part in astro-crafts, designed sustainable habitats for humanity on an exoplanet, saw a planetarium show, explored telescopes and infrared cameras and even came face to face with tardigrades when they examined moss they had collected under the microscope.
“We were delighted to support this fantastic camp which has inspired the next generation of space enthusiasts through high-quality, curriculum-based space activities as part of the National Space Academy’s innovative Space to Learn programme.”
The National Space Academy’s Space to Learn programme also includes masterclasses and careers conferences and has been fully funded by the UK Space Agency.
National Space Academy Communications and Marketing Manager Grace Davis added: “It was wonderful to bring the Space to Learn programme to the Shetlands.
“During our week on Unst, the National Space Academy had the privilege of working with a truly remarkable group of young people who threw themselves into every challenge, experiment and activity we could present them with.
“Having the support of Josh Barker was fantastic: he brought his expertise and passion for space to every session, with the students particularly loving his astronomy craft workshop.”