Upcoming Space and STEM summer programme Mission Discovery tasks students to design experiments to be done in space

The International Space School Educational Training (ISSET) is making its way back to our shores with Mission Discovery, a summer programme which focuses on space as well as Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). 

The programme aims to give students aged 14 to 18 the opportunity to work with National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) astronauts, rocket scientists and leading academics. 

According to Mission Discovery, the programme “gives young people access to opportunities and the skills needed for a successful future, including communications, team building, leadership and project management”. 

It will be held at Stamford American International School from Jun 20 to 24. 

Students will be tasked to work in teams and design an experiment which can benefit humankind on or off the planet in a span of five days. 

Subsequently, the best idea will be selected and constructed at NASA before being launched in a rocket to the International Space Station where it will be carried out by astronauts. 

“It is an incredible opportunity to have your idea used as an experiment on the International Space Station, and it’s been fascinating to watch the ideas develop over the last few days,” said Tony Antonelli, astronaut and space shuttle pilot.

Local partners Mastercard, AWS, Page Personnel and Rolls Royce have also sponsored 150 young people from low socio-economic backgrounds to partake in the programme. 

Tickets cost $1,230 and can be purchased on their website.