The girls took part in Challenge X where different groups were in charge of different tasks. Alex’s team had to plan a way in which to provide humans with an authentic and educational experience for people visiting the moon. This presentation involved creating a transportation vehicle to and from the moon, a habitation unit on the moon and activities to create an enjoyable experience for all tourists. They had to manage all these things within a specific budget of $750 million and make sure it met legal requirements. Her team came 2^nd out of 30 teams.  Zara’s team were given $600 million dollars and had to create a mission to Mars and design the various aspects of the mission, (eg rockets, rovers, space gloves, habitats, etc).

On their return we asked them some questions about their trip.

What made you decide to attend this program?

Alex: I previously had some interest in space and I wanted to see if it was a career worth pursuing. I thought it would be an amazing experience and a once in a lifetime opportunity. I believed it would be such a great learning curve and a chance to explore something very new to me.

Zara: I decided to go on the CASE Space School Program because I wanted a new experience.  I also wanted to learn more about space and the advancements that have been made in technology since the first rocket was launched into space.

What was the most valuable thing you learnt in the program?

Alex: I have realised that I want to get my certification for scuba diving. It was a major highlight of the trip! Wow!

Zara: how to show leadership and use teamwork to achieve a common goal.

Has it changed your thoughts/feelings about Science? If so, how?

Alex: The space school experience has made me more aware of different opportunities regarding space and science and I have a much more open view and mindset surrounding all of space. I am still not interested in  Science playing a major part of my life, although, I now have a much greater appreciation for all aspects of science, especially space.

Zara: I feel that going on the program has increased my curiosity about the world and the mysteries of space.

Has it changed future career plans? If so, how?

Zara: For me it has not changed my career plans to become a historical architect, however, if the opportunity arose to become an architect for the future habitats NASA is hoping to build on Mars and the Moon, I would seize the opportunity.

Would you recommend the trip to other students?

Alex: Yes, I would recommend it to every single student! I went on this experience not knowing anything about space and not having that much interest in science. However, it was the most worthwhile experience I have ever taken part in. I have learnt so many things about space and I have witnessed the most amazing things in the NASA headquarters. I also met some amazing people including various famous astronauts. It was also very interesting as we attended various museums, an NBA game, Rice University and many outlet shopping centres. These were excellent parts of the trip as it helped break up the science parts and helped us experience different aspects of America. I went on the trip only knowing Zara in the year below me and we hadn’t talked much before. I was nervous before leaving for the trip and the day before I actually didn’t want to attend anymore. However, after the first few days of the trip I didn’t want to come home! I came away with the most amazing new friends who were from all over NSW. I can’t stress enough that it was the most worthwhile trip and it doesn’t matter if you like science or not, I can guarantee you will love this experience as you will develop an appreciation for the amazing activities and knowledge that surround space exploration.

Zara: I would highly recommend this trip to any student who is interested.  It was the opportunity of a life-time.  I learnt so many new things, not only to do with space, but also life-skills, such as teamwork and leadership.  On the trip, I also made heaps of new friends from across Sydney.  It was also exciting to learn about the historical side of Houston and learn the different experiences from the local people.

Kate Lefever - Science Coordinator