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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#Brazil #Portugal #unite #educational #project
In what ways do R-Crio and KSCIA contribute to the success of the ”International Journey – ISS Expedition”?
**Interview with Roberto Fanganiello, Scientific Director of R-Crio Células-Tronco**
**Interviewer:** Good afternoon, Roberto. The “International Journey – ISS Expedition” project sounds exciting! Can you tell us more about how this initiative came about and what it aims to achieve for students from Brazil and Portugal?
**Roberto Fanganiello:** Good afternoon! Absolutely, we are thrilled about this project. The “International Journey – ISS Expedition” is an initiative designed to foster educational cooperation between Brazil and Portugal. It allows students to create scientific experiments that will be sent to the International Space Station. This initiative involves around 9,800 students globally, enabling them to experience not just theoretical knowledge but practical application in a real microgravity environment.
**Interviewer:** That’s a unique opportunity for students. What specific areas of research will the students focus on, and how does it enhance their educational experience?
**Roberto Fanganiello:** The students will primarily work on experiments related to regenerative biology and other scientific fields within STEAM—science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. By designing experiments to be conducted in space, they gain unparalleled insight into scientific research processes, teamwork, and real-world problem-solving. This hands-on experience significantly enriches their learning journey and prepares them for future careers in science and aerospace.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the support from R-Crio and KSCIA. How do these organizations contribute to the project’s success?
**Roberto Fanganiello:** R-Crio plays a vital role by providing the scientific framework and mentorship, guiding students through the experimental design process. KSCIA, the International Space Academy, coordinates the project and connects students with space science education, mirroring professional aerospace programs. This collaboration ensures that students not only learn but also apply their knowledge practically, facing challenges similar to those in the industry.
**Interviewer:** What kind of impact do you foresee this program having on the students involved?
**Roberto Fanganiello:** We believe this program will have a profound impact. Not only will students develop scientific skills, but they will also gain confidence, creativity, and a deeper understanding of collaborative work. It encourages them to think critically about scientific challenges and nurture a passion for research. In the long term, it could inspire many to pursue careers in science and technology fields.
**Interviewer:** is there anything you’d like to add for parents and educators who are interested in this initiative?
**Roberto Fanganiello:** I encourage parents and educators to engage with this project and support student participation. It represents a significant opportunity for young minds to be part of something impactful. By fostering curiosity and exploration, we can cultivate the next generation of scientists and innovators who will drive future advancements in science and technology.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Roberto! We look forward to seeing the experiments developed by these young scientists.
**Roberto Fanganiello:** Thank you! It’s a pleasure to share this initiative, and we are excited for the stories that will emerge from it.
