Classes Azur Astro Espace: The Activities and their Impact

Paper number

IAC-05-E1.1.02

Author

Mr. Philippe Jung, AAAF, France

Year

2005

Abstract

Created in 1994 in the wake of the closure of the Space Camp of Patrick Baudry in Cannes, Classes Azur Astro Espace (AAE) provide a world\'s unique combination of space and astronomy courses, as given by active and retired professionals of two of the best corresponding facilities extant: Alcatel Space in Cannes and Observatoire de la Côte d'Azur (OCA) in Nice, Grasse and Caussols.
In addition to 30 astronomical modules, fifteen space modules, of 30 to 60 minutes each, have been created, giving simple and clear explanations on launchers and satellites, their development and applications, together with an historical background. Basic experiments are included, such as an unique small catapult to explain gravity, or more classical water rockets. All these modules will be briefly summarised: history of astronautics, history of astronomy, why go into space and why satellites, the problems to be solved in space, gravity and launch means, description of a satellite, telecommunications satellites, observation satellites, space probes, manned spaceflight, unfolding of a project, Alcatel satellites presentation, building a satellite, the artificial satellites, guidance \&navigation. It also will be shown how mock-ups of Moon and Mars bases are built thanks to team work, during workshops of two hours.
One selected module can be briefly presented.
The rationale for selecting these modules and activities will be explained. They are closely following space activities, particular examples having been the extraordinary landing of Huygens on Titan : a symposium on Cassini, from the grand astronomer to the space mission, has been organised in Nice, and other similar events are to follow. A street with a scale reproduction of the Solar System has been inaugurated in Perinaldo, where Gio Domenico Cassini was born. Also covered have been the Mars missions, or the use of satellites in the wake of the Tsunami.
An analysis of the effectiveness of AAE, its impact on international people from age 5 to 70, will be presented. The reasons for this success will be detailed, with thousands of participants from all over the world having spent from 1 to 12 days in the Cannes to Perinaldo area. This is notably due to the support of many official bodies, companies and associations.

Abstract document

IAC-05-E1.1.02.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-05-E1.1.02.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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