NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore, currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS), is set to connect with students from the Toms River School District in New Jersey. This interaction will take place during a 20-minute space-to-Earth call on January 14, 2025, at 10 a.m. EST, in collaboration with Science Friday.
During this event, astronauts Wilmore and Don Pettit will respond to previously recorded questions related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The initiative aims to inspire middle school students to apply their knowledge to address environmental challenges in their communities.
For over 24 years, astronauts have continuously lived and worked aboard the ISS, conducting vital research and technological investigations that benefit life on Earth and support future missions, including NASA's Artemis program. This program aims to return humans to the Moon and prepare for potential human exploration of Mars.
The ISS serves as a platform for testing technologies and developing skills necessary for deeper space exploration. Communication between astronauts and NASA's Mission Control Center in Houston occurs around the clock via the Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) Near Space Network.
Media representatives wishing to cover the event must RSVP by January 10, 2025, to Santiago Florez at sflorez@sciencefriday.com.
For more information on space station research, videos, and lesson plans, visit the NASA website.