Design of a Rapidly Fabricated, Smart Material Actuated Robotic Manipulator for Space Applications
- Paper number
IAC-04-I.4.11
- Author
Mrs. Kathryn J. De Laurentis, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, United States
- Year
2004
- Abstract
Amateur radio on the International Space Station {ARISS} is an educational outreach program consisting of delegations from 16 countries. The immediate focus of the program provides schools and public agencies in rural and remote areas of Canada such as First Nation communities, whom would not have the technical means to accomplish a space contact, with the technical and educational support necessary for a motivating learning experience.
During the space contact with crew aboard the ISS, participants experience an extraordinary interactive learning opportunity which creates a platform for these participants to further their learning or careers choices in space and related science and technology. Participants are exposed to telecommunications, human spaceflight, and an incredible depth to space science and technology subject matter expertise through direct contact with the ISS crew members.
Many space contacts take place in the school setting, with students ranging from Elementary to Secondary grades, with the contact focus supported in the curriculum. Contacts are not restricted to this venue; the target groups are any participants which exhibit enthusiasm for active learning in space related science and technology. There are no restrictions placed upon the age range of participants, and, languages other than English are considered if the crew is able to speak the requested language.
Preparation for the space contact takes place months to years prior, when an application for the space contact is filed with ARISS. The application requires groups to submit an educational program outline for a contact. Information required to prepare an educational program outline is provided if needed, as is technical support if a radio team is unavailable. Due to Canadian content requirements, the Canadian Space Agency’s Space Learning Program provides pedagogical resources, and workshops to prepare students and other participants so that they may achieve maximum benefit from the contact.
The ARISS program utilizes two formal feedback mechanisms, collected via a web based approach. The NASA program evaluation is completed by all participants involved with the contact and shows significant results supporting the motivational impact that the contact has on participants, to furthering their interest in space related science and technology.
This presentation will focus on the benefit of a direct space contact with astronauts – access to a unique learning environment, in addition to relevant information for participants to prepare for a future space contact.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-04-I.4.11.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.