By Dr. Curtis Varnell
Students from several area schools have been exploring space travel and the universe through the Young Astronauts program. The program, developed by area Science Specialist’s Amber Cobb and Dr. Curtis Varnell, introduces k-2 students to the basic science concepts involved in space travel. Students explore the forces of gravity and the requirements for astronauts to enter space as they prepare to launch space rockets that they assist in designing. Once in space, they learn that loss of gravity had dramatic effects as they learn how astronauts sleep, eat, and adapt to a trying environment. Students try out space food in the form of space ice cream and learn to drink tang from an enclose bag and through a straw in order to prevent it from drifting about the space craft.
Students learn that they must adapt to living in a harsh environment that is without oxygen, is cold, and extremely different from where they live. In order to fully comprehend, they are dressed in space suits and helmets equipped with communication gear. Using heavy NASA gloves, students attempt to pick up equipment and complete work. Frustrating but a great learning experience.
Real excitement is created by shooting off a water or air rocket outside. Going hundreds of feet into the air, the students are amazed by the demonstration and are excited about exploring space. The program was funded by a grant from the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics. The AIAA is the world’s largest aerospace technical society with over 30,000 members and is dedicated to shaping the future of aerospace education.
In addition, the Guy Fenter education cooperative, in conjunction with NASA and the Arkansas Space Consortium, has been able to use the STAR LAB traveling planetarium. The traveling planetarium, a huge domed blow-up classroom, allows students to experience of observing the actual night sky’s while learning about constellations, solar systems, and stars.
Schools who have participated this spring include Waldron, Clarksville, Paris, County Line, and Hackett. The program will continue into the fall semester of next school year.
