NiAT Space Camp: Prepare for Launch!
From 24 to 25 March, some 30 secondary school students took part in the 2021 NiAT Space Camp at the Telisai Earth Station, Tutong District. The two-day programme was the ultimate educational experience for the students aged 14 to 17, where they learnt real-world applications of space science, technologies, and practised Geographical Information System (GIS) applications. All educational materials and activities were provided by NiAT.
The goal of the space camp was to excite and inspire the youth on the future of aerospace sciences, technologies, and engineering. The programme began with a journey of understanding life in space.
The students took part in the following activities:
GIS Treasure Hunt
OBSERVE
The first day began with the use of the GIS platform called OBSERVE. The students were shown a digital map and they were tasked to find hidden treasure from the spots provided on the map. The students were divided into small groups, and were each tasked to find items related to either a space suit or rocket launch.
Create Your Own Space Suit
The students then created their own space suit, based on what they’ve found during the treasure hunt. This game tested their creativity in utilising raw materials for constructing a space suit. Various types of fabric were provided; the students were expected to envision and explore the various fields of engineering in order to construct a space suit that could be maintained and protected in the space atmosphere.
Create Your Own Rocket Launch
This amazing experience gave students the opportunity to design their own DIY rockets within a group using the educational tools provided, taking into account aerodynamics and gravity. They were then given a tutorial on how to launch their rockets.
During this activity, they launched their newly made rocketship into the air, using two simple ingredients to produce a chemical reaction: baking soda and vinegar. They learnt the fundamental steps on how to mix the ingredients to get the best lift-off. It was thrilling for them to see something lift off against Earth’s gravity!
Essay Writing & Poster Designing
On the second day, the students wrote an essay and designed a poster. Participants were given a range of topics to choose from, such as:
- Why does outer space matter?
- Life on Mars
- My experience at the 2021 NiAT Space Camp
- What’s up in space?
- How we can benefit from space exploration
- Our majestic universe
Invited Speakers
NiAT also invited representatives from Cyber Security Brunei (CSB) and Persatuan Astronomi Brunei Darussalam (PABD), who shared on current technologies and how to utilise technological and astronomical understanding. The talk was mainly to create interest in science and to raise awareness on opportunities in pursuing careers in astronomy and technology.
Cyber Security Brunei
CSB delivered a talk on cyberbullying to increase awareness on cybersecurity on social media. Local case studies were used to show the realistic implications of cyberbullying and students were also taught on how to be cautious about posting sensitive information on social media.
Persatuan Astronomi Brunei Darussalam
PABD shared their adventures around Brunei in search of beautiful solar observations using the telescope. The speaker also talked about the wonders of our universe and showcased one of their telescopes, where participants had the opportunity to view the daytime shooting star and solar system.
#NiATSpaceCamp2021 #ReadyForOurFuture
