Freeport Schools to become first district in nation to establish audio and video contact with International Space Station
Freeport Public Schools has been chosen by NASA to be among 13 institutions across the country to make contact with astronauts aboard the International Space Station. Unlike the other 12 institutions making audio contact, Freeport is the only institution in the country that will make both audio and video contact with the astronauts.
"This is a once-on-a-lifetime opportunity for our students and we are honored to have been selected by NASA for this distinction," said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham. "As part of our STEAM initiatives, all aspects of the curriculum districtwide will incorporate lessons focusing on preparing for this unique educational experience and real-world lesson."
The contact is scheduled to take place between January-May, 2018. NASA will provide the district with the exact date and time approximately two weeks before the contact is initiated. The contact will be for approximately 10 minutes, during which time it is expected to field 10 questions from students across all grade levels.
Currently there are six astronauts aboard the space station, two from Russia, three from the USA (including one woman) and one from Italy. The crew members are studying more efficient solar arrays, the physics of neutron stars, a new drug to fight osteoporosis and the effect of prolonged microgravity on the heart.
"We are excited to take on this incredible challenge and the unique opportunities it provides to expand our STEAM curriculum for our students," said Director of Science Dr. Vincent Pereira. "I would like to thank the Freeport staff for working tirelessly with me to make this opportunity possible for our students."
