White House and UK Space Agency join Ark Globe students for mini rocket launch experiment
Doug Emhoff, The Second Gentlemen of The United States, Paul Bate, CEO at UK Space Agency, and Dr Peggy Whitson, retired NASA Astronaut, visited Ark Globe Academy this week.
The purpose of the visit was to inspire and empower girls to pursue STEM subjects and promote interest in space exploration and science. Mr Emhoff spoke to the students about the importance of education and pursuing their passions. He emphasised the need for more diversity in science and technology and encouraged the students to dream big.
Paul Bate and his team spoke about the agency's work. Students had the opportunity to build their own mini rockets and launch their own rockets displays.
Peggy Whitson, who holds the record for the most time spent in space by an American, and the first female, nonmilitary Chief of the Astronaut Office, shared her experiences working on the International Space Station and the challenges she faced during her missions. She welcomed questions from our budding astronauts and said:
“If you want to be an astronaut you can go into any of the STEM fields and you would be successful. Personal characteristics to be an astronaut that I think are important are adaptability, teamwork - being able to work well with others, and just being motivated and a positive person.”
The 30 students were thrilled to have the opportunity to meet such esteemed guests and learn about space exploration firsthand. The visit succeeded in sparking curiosity and inspiration in the students and promoting the importance of STEM education.
Executive Principal, Matt Jones OBE Said:
“Girls in STEM have long been underrepresented, but the tides are turning thanks to initiatives like this, highlighting the importance of diversity in these fields. There is a growing movement to encourage and support girls in pursuing STEM careers to ensure that talent, wherever it may be, has the opportunity to flourish and succeed. Not only does diversity in these fields lead to more incredible innovation and problem-solving, but it also paves the way for a more equitable and inclusive future"