SaxaVord Spaceport’s Astronaut Job Camp 2022 open for registration
Image courtesy SaxaVord Spaceport
Designed to complement the educational ambitions of SaxaVord Spaceport, the Astronaut Job Camp’s mission is for children to foster the acquisition of STEAM skills and teamwork, get a taste for space professionalism, and leave with the knowledge that a career in the space industry is firming within their grasp.
Starting for virtual participants on 4th July, and in-person in Islesburgh Community Centre on 11th July, the camp will involve a series of fun and interactive space mission-themed workshops and special guest experiences from professional astronauts and scientists. The astronauts-in-training will learn about tomorrow’s jobs in space, the skills needed in space missions, inclusivity in the cosmos, how space connects us across the globe, and its impact on sustainability.
Mike Mongo is director of the United Launch Alliance-sponsored Humannaires Initiative, YouTuber and US author of The Astronaut Instruction Manual, and has worked with SaxaVord for a second year running to design and host the camp. SIC, UHI and DYW have also helped convene the schools across Shetland, ensuring their ideas inform the camp content. With over 150 virtual campers from five continents taking part in 2021’s camp, the team is eager to engage with an even larger group of children this year.
“There is no more exciting way to learn about STEAM subjects than via a trip into space. This camp will be fun, hands-on and a real taste of a career in space. We are committed to putting Shetland, Scotland and the UK on the map as a centre of space knowledge, innovation and resources, and this is just the start,” said Mason Robbins, Education Officer, SaxaVord Spaceport.
“Space brings us all together. Whether you are just a few miles from SaxaVord’s launchpads on Unst or live in a different country, the space industry is unfolding around us and there are endless opportunities for the next generation. We hope to inspire as many children as possible at this year’s Space Camp and encourage everyone to sign up,” added Mike Mongo.
Karen Wood, mother of Grace, who took part in the virtual camp last year said, “Grace absolutely loved Space Camp. Mike was engaging, funny and so enthusiastic. He gave Grace so much confidence in herself. We can’t wait for this year’s space camp!”
Cameron Anderson, 13, also shared his experience: "I found the space camp really interesting. It was good to meet other kids who shared my enthusiasm. I learned how challenging it will be to live in space. This will not stop me. Thank you Mike for your encouragement in helping me to become a humannaire."
“As SaxaVord Spaceport counts down to the UK’s first vertical satellite launch, we are proud to be championing STEAM education and skills across Shetland and beyond. This is a fantastic initiative, and we hope the campers leave with a real passion and enthusiasm for what the future will bring.” said Frank Strang, CEO, SaxaVord Spaceport.
