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
How does participating in this program prepare students for future careers in the aerospace sector?
**Interview with Roberto Fanganiello, Scientific Director of R-Crio Células-Tronco**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us, Roberto. This initiative between Brazil and Portugal sounds fascinating! Can you tell us more about the *International Journey – ISS Expedition* and how it came about?
**Roberto Fanganiello:** Thank you for having me! The *International Journey – ISS Expedition* is a collaborative effort that allows students from Brazil and Portugal to create scientific experiments that will be conducted in the unique environment of the International Space Station. It’s a remarkable way to promote educational cooperation between our two countries, leveraging the global *Student Spaceflight Experiments Program (SSEP)*.
**Editor:** That sounds amazing! What types of experiments can students expect to work on, and why is microgravity significant for their research?
**Roberto Fanganiello:** Students will focus on experiments in microgravity and regenerative biology, which is crucial for understanding various biological processes that can only be observed in space. The microgravity environment allows researchers to explore phenomena without the influence of Earth’s gravity, leading to potentially groundbreaking discoveries. This hands-on experience is invaluable for students as they engage in cutting-edge scientific inquiry.
**Editor:** It’s inspiring to see such a large group involved—around 9,800 students from 21 communities! How do you think this project will impact these young scientists?
**Roberto Fanganiello:** This initiative offers an unparalleled opportunity for students to immerse themselves in scientific research. By being part of the selection process for experiments sent to the ISS, they will gain real-world experience and insight into the scientific method. Ultimately, it instills a sense of confidence and inspires a future generation of scientists and engineers, vital for our industry.
**Editor:** Giovanna Hueb from KSCIA also mentioned the importance of preparing students for real challenges in the aerospace sector. How does this program contribute to that goal?
**Roberto Fanganiello:** The project integrates knowledge across various disciplines, including science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM). By collaborating on real experiments, students are not only learning about theoretical concepts but also developing critical problem-solving skills and teamwork. This experience is directly aligned with the demands of the aerospace industry and prepares them for future opportunities.
**Editor:** It seems that the support from institutions like the Michaelis Foundation for Global Education plays a crucial role. Can you elaborate on the importance of these partnerships?
**Roberto Fanganiello:** Absolutely! Partnerships with organizations such as the Michaelis Foundation are essential for providing the necessary resources and support to make this project a reality. They help us ensure that students have access to cutting-edge facilities and mentorship, enhancing their learning experience. Such collaborations are vital for fostering innovation and scientific literacy.
**Editor:** Thank you, Roberto, for sharing these insights. The *International Journey – ISS Expedition* certainly seems to be a transformative program for young scientists in Brazil and Portugal. We look forward to hearing more about the experiments that are chosen!
**Roberto Fanganiello:** Thank you! We’re excited to see where this journey takes our students, and we hope to inspire many more along the way.