A group of students from Texarkana Independent School District (TISD) in Texas have embarked on a unique journey that started in their classroom at Morris Elementary School and is now reaching for the stars. These students are currently at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, where they have designed a microgravity experiment that is set to be launched and sent to the International Space Station.
The experiment, which aims to determine if normal strength concrete can form in microgravity, was conceived by TISD students Isaac Steel, Cooper Wood, Lizzy LaGrone, and Lynnley Galloway. The project is part of the Student Spaceflight Experiments program, with TISD being one of only 37 communities across three countries participating in this incredible space initiative.
Speaking about their project, Isaac Steel expressed his curiosity by asking, “Will normal strength concrete form in microgravity?” Cooper Wood shared his feelings of accomplishment, stating, “I feel like it is an accomplishment, how like our project is going into space and how it might improve mankind … something like that.”
Lizzy LaGrone reflected on the challenges they faced in creating the experiment proposal, saying, “It was so hard to make the proposal; but when we did make it, it felt more real.” Lynnley Galloway expressed her hopes for the experiment’s success upon its return to Earth, stating, “Once it comes back to Earth, we hope that the growth is just as strong as it is here.”
Nicole Ayers, from TISD, shared her pride and excitement for the students, stating, “I know the school and everyone is really proud of them. I’m proud of them, Mr. Anderson is proud of them, so we are real excited to have this opportunity.”
The live launch of the experiment was scheduled for Monday at 8:29 p.m. CST. This incredible opportunity highlights the dedication and creativity of these students, showcasing their potential to contribute to scientific advancements and space exploration.
As the students eagerly await the results of their experiment, the entire community is rallying behind them, supporting their journey from the classroom to the cosmos. This initiative not only inspires the students involved but also serves as a testament to the power of education and innovation in shaping the future of space exploration.
Stay tuned for updates on the progress of the TISD students’ experiment aboard the SpaceX flight to the International Space Station, as they continue to reach for the stars and make their mark on the world of science and space exploration.
