Making the Exploration of Space a Reality for Everyone

Paper number

IAC-06-E1.P.5.04

Author

Prof. Lachlan Thompson, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT), Australia

Coauthor

Ms. Anne Brumfitt, Space Qualified Ltd, Australia

Coauthor

Mr. Patrick Honan, Australia

Coauthor

Ms. Naomi Mathers, Victorian Space Science Education Centre, Australia

Year

2006

Abstract

When the first human steps onto the Martian surface how many people will have played an active role in getting them there safely? The Apollo program engaged less than 100,000 people first hand; therefore, it is no wonder that for most people space exploration is seen as unattainable. 

How do you make space an attainable reality for everyone? Experience gained with the successful “Spiders in Space” experiment that flew on STS-107 in 2003 provided experience with a potential method and mechanism to engage the community in the excitement of space exploration. This experiment focused on a class room of students investigating an experiment that would reveal findings new to space science. The uniqueness of the students discovering findings not known to NASA or ESA inspired the students, their school, families and Nation.  The findings of the STS-107 “Spiders in Space” project were used to implement a new “Hands on Experiment to inspire millions of students and their communities.

“Bees in Space” is an innovative program to involve all members of the global community. Students work with scientists and industry to find an effective pollinator for plants in a micro gravity greenhouse producing food to sustain a human presence on Mars. 

To provide the Mars crew with sufficient food a space greenhouse has become the subject of international research. Plants grown in space have not produced fruit without astronaut intervention, which raises the question, how do you efficiently pollinate plants in space? This investigation is within the grasp of the wider community and has relevance beyond its space application. As we develop the means to sustain life beyond Earth our understanding of how to sustain and enhance life on our planet is increased. New technologies and skills which developed as part of the program have application to a range of industries. Students have a positive impact on their own community and how we manage our fragile ecosystem as well as our ability to successfully move beyond our own planet. 

“Bees in Space” is a unique initiative that supports both space research and education within an exciting and motivating program. The project facilitates ownership for students and the community in the greatest adventure of the 21st Century, the first human landing on Mars. The first step on the moon may have been taken “For all mankind” the first step on Mars is taken with the involvement “Of all mankind”.

Abstract document

IAC-06-E1.P.5.04.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-06-E1.P.5.04.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.