Reinhardt students chosen to speak with International Space Station May 15

(ROCKWALL, TX – May 12, 2017) Reinhardt Elementary students will have the opportunity to speak with Thomas Pesquet, a member of the International Space Station for expedition 50/51, about his life in space on May 15 at approximately 10:30 a.m. Central Standard Time.

Reinhardt Elementary is one of 12 US schools chosen by ARISS (Amateur Radio on the International Space Station).

“We tell our students they can do anything. What better way to prove this than providing an opportunity to allow students to interact with a real scientist,” said Katie Braden, district elementary science coordinator. “In their minds, the legitimacy of what they hear from him or her, proves that real people hold these amazing positions.”

Local Amateur Radio operators in California will use their equipment and skills to track the International Space Station (ISS) as it passes overhead. While the ISS is above them, the attendees will be able to use Skype and Amateur Radio to talk directly with one of the astronauts aboard the ISS.

The ISS will be above the horizon for 10 minutes at approximately 10:30 a.m. Central Standard Time. The audio from the ISS will be best when the space station is at their highest point above the horizon. The closer to the horizon the ISS is, the more static the audio will have.

Reinhardt students spent the year exploring new horizons. This overarching theme allows for the emphasis on skills necessary for growth and overall learning. As the year progressed, all classes learned what it takes to be an astronaut and the learning they must accomplish to reach this position.

Reinhardt’s daily announcements have included facts about the residents of the International Space Station and the station itself. They also celebrated Peggy Whitson’s record of the most total days in space as part of their learning.

ARISS is a joint venture by NASA, the American Radio Relay League (ARRL), and the Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation (AMSA T) to facilitate communication via Amateur Radio between astronauts aboard the International Space Station and schools and communities around the world. ARISS programs excite and motivate students in a one-of-a-kind presentation and exchange.

Submitted by Steven Offield, Communications Coordinator, Rockwall ISD.

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