2024-11-18 15:13:00
Students from Brazil and Portugal will have the opportunity to develop scientific experiments that will be sent to the International Space Station (ISS) in an initiative that reinforces educational cooperation between the two countries. The project, called International Journey – ISS Expeditionintegrate or Student Spaceflight Experiments Program (SSEP), a global program led by National Center for Earth and Space Science Education (NCESSE) and the Arthur C. Clarke Institute for Space Education. The action is coordinated in Brazil and Portugal by KSCIA – International Space Academy and by R-Crio Células-Tronco, which encourage student participation in the development of experiments in microgravity and regenerative biology.
The initiative, which encompasses around 9,800 students from 21 communities around the world, offers young people the chance to see their projects selected for a real test in space, where astronauts will carry out the experiments. This program represents a unique opportunity for scientific engagement for elementary and high school students, allowing experience in the space environment to contribute to their learning.
R-Crio’s scientific director, Roberto Fanganiello, highlights the educational value of the project. “It is with immense enthusiasm that R-Crio supports this project, as it represents a unique chance for Brazilian and Portuguese students to explore regenerative biology in a real microgravity environment.”
In addition to the partnership with R-Crio, KSCIA plays a central role in coordinating the project, with the aim of bringing young people closer to scientific research and preparing them to deal with real challenges in the aerospace industry. “THE KSCIA – International Space Academy has a mission to connect students to space science, replicating what is required in professional programs. Students are being prepared to face real challenges in the aerospace sector”, explains Giovanna Hueb, KSCIA representative and coordinator of the International Journey ISS Expedition not Brazil.
Project highlights
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eeal space experiment: the project will select an experiment to be sent to the ISS, where it will be carried out in microgravity conditions, providing practical experience for students.
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Advanced scientific education: the action promotes the integration of knowledge in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM), encouraging cooperation between Brazil and Portugal and preparing students for the future.
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Support from sponsors: the initiative has the participation of institutions such as Michaelis Foundation for Global Education and ANADEM – Brazilian Society of Medical Law and Bioethics, among others.
Project timeline
- September 2024: beginning of the development of experiments.
- November 2024: selection of finalist experiments by a scientific jury.
- December 2024: final evaluation of proposals by American authorities.
- Spring 2025: launch of the experiment to the ISS in partnership with SpaceX.
- June – July 2025: final conference in Washington, DC, with student participation.
Space Education and Regenerative Medicine: Driving Science
The project also covers the study of regenerative medicine in microgravity conditions. R-Crio, a Brazilian biotechnology institution, highlights the potential for advances in tissue engineering and regenerative treatments based on these experiences. According to R-Crio’s scientific advisor, Yasmin Rana de Miranda, “research in space on cellular processes in microgravity opens new paths to better understand cellular regeneration, contributing to innovations in regenerative medicine”.
The possibility of studying stem cells and biomaterials in microgravity, according to researchers, could lead to significant discoveries for the treatment of diseases and injuries, in addition to influencing future space missions.
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- What unique opportunities does the ISS Expedition initiative provide for students interested in STEM fields in Brazil and Portugal?
**Interview with Roberto Fanganiello, Scientific Director at R-Crio, and Giovanna Hueb, KSCIA Representative**
*Date: November 18, 2024*
**Interviewer:** Thank you both for joining us today to discuss the exciting International Journey – ISS Expedition initiative. Roberto, can you start by sharing what inspired the collaboration between Brazil and Portugal for this project?
**Roberto Fanganiello:** Thank you for having us! The collaboration stems from a shared vision between our two countries to enhance scientific education and exploration. By combining resources and expertise, we aim to give students an unparalleled opportunity to engage in scientific research that will actually be conducted in space. The ISS serves as the perfect platform for this inspirational journey.
**Interviewer:** That’s fascinating! Giovanna, can you explain how this initiative will impact the participating students?
**Giovanna Hueb:** Absolutely! This program allows approximately 9,800 students from various communities to develop their own scientific experiments, which will be chosen for execution in microgravity. This hands-on experience not only bolsters their understanding of scientific principles but also fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills required in real-world scenarios. It’s a bridge connecting them to the aerospace industry and igniting their passion for science.
**Interviewer:** Roberto, what kind of experiments are the students expected to develop, and why is microgravity important for them?
**Roberto Fanganiello:** The focus is primarily on regenerative biology, which examines how living organisms regenerate tissues. Microgravity provides a unique environment where the influence of gravity is removed, which can lead to valuable insights that are impossible to obtain on Earth. This different perspective can transform students’ understanding and allow them to contribute new ideas to the field.
**Interviewer:** Giovanna, how does the program promote international cooperation in the STEM fields?
**Giovanna Hueb:** The program serves as an excellent platform for scientific collaboration between Brazil and Portugal, blending different cultures and ideas. By working together, students learn the value of teamwork and international partnerships while engaging in STEAM education. This cross-border initiative not only enriches their educational experience but also prepares them to tackle global challenges.
**Interviewer:** What support systems are in place to ensure the success of the experiments chosen for the ISS?
**Roberto Fanganiello:** We have strong support from various institutions, including the Michaelis Foundation for Global Education, which provides educational resources and mentorship. We also have a rigorous selection process for the experiments, ensuring that the best proposals are chosen. Continuous guidance and training from our organizations will help students refine their ideas and prepare them for the reality of scientific research.
**Interviewer:** what are your hopes for the long-term impact of this initiative on the students and their communities?
**Giovanna Hueb:** Our hope is that this project opens doors for students and shows them the possibilities within STEM fields. We want them to become not only leaders in science but also advocates for international collaboration. This experience will help mold their futures and inspire the next generation of scientists in their communities.
**Interviewer:** Thank you both for sharing these insights. It sounds like an incredible project that can inspire young minds across Brazil and Portugal!
**Roberto Fanganiello & Giovanna Hueb:** Thank you for having us! We’re excited about the journey ahead!
