T

his December, what could only be once described as an unattainable dream for most may become a glowing reality. With over 730 Australian and New Zealand secondary students set to launch to the United States to participate in the Case Space School International Study Program, many of whom are lucky students from schools across the North Shore.

The unique program is a life-changing experience for the students involved, as the program aims to ignite teenagers' passion and enthusiasm for STEAM and excitement for the future by immersing them in the incredible environment of the world space travel capital, visiting the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the US space sector.

Curious young locals this month will walk in the footsteps of space travel giants at a time when the buzz around space travel and NASA is at an all-time high, with the exciting Launch of the Artemis 2 mission looming. Part of NASA's Artemis program and the first scheduled crewed mission of NASA's Orion spacecraft, the anticipated take-off is currently planned to be launched in November 2024.

"It is this spirit of exploration that inspires the CASE Space School, and it is this spirit that we hope to instil in all students," said Natalie Roberts, Senior Program Manager, Actura Australia and based in the Gordon office.

Always at the forefront of innovation and technology, the space industry is experiencing a global boom. This growing sector demonstrates an exciting future of opportunity for our teenagers as its stimulating environment will inspire the next generation of STEAM-skilled leaders prepared to take on and succeed in our innovation-driven world.

CASE Space School offers two distinctly unique programs. The Senior Space School program is designed for years 10-12. Focusing on developing entrepreneurialism, creativity, teamwork, and critical thinking skills, empowering students with the STEAM skills to excel in their future careers. The Junior Space School program caters to years 7-9 and aims to foster curiosity and interest within the STEAM fields in a fun and exciting way, training young explorers to pursue future studies with enthusiasm.

Lucky students will be put through their paces this December, participating in thrilling astronaut training, examining science and engineering labs, and touring NASA and commercial space companies. Meeting and speaking face-to-face with a real astronaut and mentored by entrepreneurs and space sector professionals as they complete challenging space missions and team projects. This will be an international tour dedicated to learning life-changing personal skills as curious young Aussies pursue their exciting futures.