Ep 12. Students of Space

In this episode of Xploration Outer Space, viewers are introduced to the future of space exploration: today's students. Host Emily Calandrelli visits Colorado's United Launch Alliance to see how high school and college students are involved in launching satellites and rockets into space. She also talks to NASA engineer and mentor Gary White about the agency's work with students to prepare them for future careers in space exploration.

Next, Emily heads to Houston, Texas to visit the Johnson Space Center and learn about the many student programs that NASA offers. From internships to engineering challenges, there are opportunities for students of all ages and interests to get involved with NASA's work.

The episode then shifts focus to the world of amateur astronomy. Emily meets with a group of high school students in Pennsylvania who are building their own telescopes and learning about the cosmos. She also talks to an astronomer who trains students to use high-powered telescopes to conduct their own research.

Moving on to the future of space exploration, Emily visits a school in Silicon Valley that is teaching students about space entrepreneurship. She talks to the founders of an aerospace company that is developing a small satellite launcher and to the students who are working on building their own satellite prototypes.

The episode wraps with a look at the many ways students can get involved with citizen science projects related to space exploration. From monitoring light pollution to identifying asteroids, there are countless opportunities for students to contribute to our understanding of the cosmos.

Throughout the episode, Emily emphasizes the importance of encouraging and supporting young people who are interested in space exploration. By providing opportunities for students to get involved, we can inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers and ensure that the future of space exploration is in capable hands.