During space camp I learnt about the different roles that are required in getting to space and that although the people that go to space get most recognition, the people behind the scenes working in mission control are just as important. I realised that working well as a team is fundamental to success of a mission. Also I learnt the ways that piloand how strenuous flying into space can be. - Nari
I learnt how astronauts would have to train for going to space and was given an insight into the stress that can arise from piloting an orbiter. I also got to find out about the fascinating and sometimes tragic history of American spaceflight. As well as this, I learnt about the physics behind the design of spacecraft such as fuel, structure and shielding. - James T
During this trip, I have learnt many things, and experienced many new things. Some of my favourite things were the simulators, such as the multi-axis chair, the flight sims, and Area 51. In Area 51, I learnt to try things and conquer my fear of heights, up on the pamper pole and giants climbing wall. I enjoyed learning about the physics of rocketry, and also the chemistry behind the fuels. - Adam
Over the trip we were given the opportunity to try so many things that you don't get elsewhere and I personally learnt more about spacey stuff than I thought possible in one week. The Area 51 activities were fun and the simulations allowed everyone to fail and die without the symptoms of actual death. If anything, I learnt the importance of every little step in a checklist as skipping steps often led to broken arms and inevitably my death. Outside of the main missions, we learnt a lot about how to build rockets and planes. - Jonathan
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| Apollo program lecture under the real Saturn V rocket |
Over the course of our week at space camp, I learnt numerous techniques and methods of communicating between groups of people, this developed most over the EVA mission where I relayed information to the flight director for repairs on the satellite. All things considered space camp was one of the best experiences I have ever had, and it will be something I will remember for the rest of my life. - Dexter
At Space Camp I learnt the importance of teamwork in every aspect of daily life. I was able to develop skills and apply them in ways I never thought possible. A distinct highlight of the trip for me was learning to scuba dive. I look forward to further dives when I get back to the UK! - Ollie B
The variety of topics that we learnt at space camp was wide, it ranged from the life support systems aboard the ISS and orbiter to the philosophy of never giving up. We were given a lecture at least once a day. On the first day we were given a short lecture on practical skills we would need for the rest of the camp, such as being able to read the checklists and acronyms that are common among astronauts and engineers, such as TAL, which stands for Trans Atlantic Landing, and RTLS, which stands for Return To Landing Site. We were also taught abort procedures and which abort to follow at which time. After that we were carted off to the lecture hall to be taught by Kevin about different types and uses of the rocket fuels that were in use on board shuttles, and there was a demonstration showing us the effectiveness of each type of fuel.
Over the next few days we were taught about different types of fighter plane, also learning how to fly a fighter pilot simulator in less than fifteen minutes and perform an EVA outside the orbiter. We were taught the basics of aerodynamics and how wings create the basics of lift, which we used in an applied experiment. We had a lecture on the second day about life support systems, such as using lithium hydroxide to purify the air. One of the most most important things we were taught, however, was not the result of a lecture, but something we were repeatedly shown throughout the week, we were taught just how well time could be used. At home, we can easily miss an hour that we could possibly use better for things of greater importance than resting or messing around, but at space camp the most free time we had was when we were asleep, we changed activities every hour or two, and made every second count, and this, I think, was the most important thing I learnt from space camp. - Matthew S
I learnt a lot about the workings of space shuttle missions, from the jobs for the astronauts in the orbiter, what is done on the ISS, and the inner workings of Mission Control. Mission Control was especially interesting, as I didn't know about the individual roles beforehand. Ethan WA
At Space Camp I learnt so much about Mission Control and what they have to do before, during and after a space mission. I also learnt a lot about how rockets work and what astronauts have to do to maintain them. Another thing I learnt about was what astronauts have to go through in space. Rishi
First of all, I found out how different the American culture can be. They don't have Nando's, Jaffa Cakes don't exist here, and they have no idea what Ribena is! On a more serious note, I learnt a vast amount about how space travel works and the courage required for it. However, as well as finding out about the dangers of space travel, a presentation by astronaut Don Thomas was truly inspiring, and I now believe that there could be no feelings more exciting than viewing the Earth from space, and participating in exhilarating missions in space. Sachin
I found that space camp was an opportunity to learn which I will experience nowhere else. It was an experience which has influenced my possible future career, due to a thoroughly interesting speech by Don Thomas. Space camp was also very fun, I found myself climbing up a 52 ft tower to zip line down, something which I would not have done in normal circumstances. I enjoyed my days at space camp and would recommend it to anyone. Ethan C
While at space camp I managed to make progress in overcoming my fear of depths as I managed use the zip line and get to the top of the pamper pole. We got some insight into the life of an astronaut and the stress and skills involved in a space mission and dealing with different problems and anomalies as they arose as quickly as possible. This was definitely an experience I will never forget. - Jake F
During space camp I was able to use the knowledge I already had to help in challenges and missions, but I also learnt a lot more about the life of astronauts and how they deal with problems they have whilst in space. Learning about the future of NASA, International and commercial space travel was incredibly interesting. Meeting and hearing from a real and very accomplished astronaut was a great surprise. The trip also helped us improve our teamwork, communication and problem solving skills as well as being a very fun experience that I would recommend. - Rory T
Space camp provided me with opportunities I never would have experienced like scuba diving and operating the Canadarm which I found very thrilling. The most important thing I learnt was the skill of sorting out problems for yourself using your own common sense rather than asking a teachers or trainer while doing the EDM, furthering my independence. For example The ISS started to fall and we had to find a way to re boost it and there was a leak and we had to find a way to expel any excess water, with no help. Another thing I will take away is that waking up before midday really extends your day and you can get so much more fulfilling things done. - Rohan
Space camp has given me many different opportunities to do things that otherwise would not be possible for me to do. Scuba diving in their tank gave me a brave insight into what it is like to be in a microgravity environment, we were able to play basketball with bowling balls which is something that seems ridiculous but was easily possible underwater. Being on the 37ft long Canadarm during the EVA was something that didn't even cross my mind before space camp but was an incredible experience that I enjoyed every time I went on it even if I was wearing a sweaty spacesuit. - Mark
Space camp has shown me that as long as I work towards it, I can do anything. Dr. Don Thomas' speech was particularly inspiring telling us about how he had to apply four times to the NASA space programme before finally being accepted. Of course, the team was confronted with many challenges, but learning how to communicate efficiently really helped, particularly in our Extended Duration Mission. Overall, the Space Camp experience is one that I will cherish and never forget - even if the beds were horrible! - Kieret
Space camp, despite the tiresome hours, has shown me that time is important. Before I could waste hours at video games and now I know that it is important to use the time to pursue activities that I love and wish to continue as a career, hobby or just to try for a first time. Space camp has taught me many things about myself and has boosted my confidence and made me more aware of my actions. Finally, space camp has taught me that I can do anything even if I fail. Failure is the key to success. - Jibril
Space Camp has provided me with a priceless insight into the training, career and life of NASA's astronauts. Throughout my training missions I was a pilot on the orbiter, station scientist on the ISS and pay-com in Mission Control, all of which taught me valuable skills such as communication, problem solving under pressure and 'thinking outside of the box'. My preparation during the week aided me during the EDM and I can honestly say that each day was exponentially better than the previous, making my stay at Space Camp extraordinary. Aside from the hands-on activities at the camp, I attended many lectures about what makes everything in the world of space travel possible, from controlling environmental conditions within the shuttle to the astronaut's rigorous training and NASA's amazing history as well as its promising future. The trip has been absolutely superb and has definitely further sparked my interest in this field. - Dom
Space camp really was something else. It is so incredibly immersive with tonnes of hands-on activities that do so well to simulate the space experience. The best aspect was that the staff train you with very NASA/Outer Space like activities that can really impact someone's pursuit of career. I have had a fantastic time during my 5 days there and highly recommend to anyone that is ready to work hard in order to have a lot of fun! - Prateek
Space Camp was absolutely brilliant, managing to keep me busy almost the whole time I was there. The simulation missions and extended duration mission managed to set the scene with great accuracy, making them really fun. I learnt that you should probably never listen to mission control during a landing (for some reason...). The best part was how well the staff pushed you you to be better, but did not force you to do anything. - Owen
After graduation we had an Italian meal at Terra Novas, then a swim and much needed shower before a quick trip to outdoor shopping centre Bridge Street Mall and a visit to Maggie Moos ice cream shop which seemed to go down very well! Friday evening it was ten pin bowling and pizza time, with a big trip to Parkway Place Mall to raid Hollister and American Eagle on Saturday.
