University Student Launch Initiative Encourages Careers In
Aerospace
NASA has tapped 11 college and
university teams in eight states to "go for launch" in the
2007-2008 University Student Launch Initiative rocketeering
challenge.
The annual challenge is designed to inspire young people to
pursue careers in science, engineering, math and technology --
fields vital to NASA's ongoing mission in space and to the
continued economic prosperity of the nation.
The University Student Launch Initiative was founded in 2006 as
a sister program to NASA's rocket-building initiative for high
school students. The initiative is hosted by NASA's Marshall Space
Flight Center in Huntsville, AL and state Space Grant Consortiums,
with primary corporate sponsorship by ATK Launch Systems of Brigham
City, Utah. Space Grant Consortiums are coalitions of state
colleges universities and other institutions, funded by NASA to
promote interest in technical careers through innovative
space-related courses, real-world hands-on science and engineering
programs and interactive outreach opportunities.
The challenge gives students hands-on, practical experience in
managing aerospace and engineering projects similar to those found
in a professional environment. Guided by Marshall Center engineers
and their own science and math professors, the teams will spend
eight months designing, building and launching rockets with
built-in, working science payloads and a goal of flying to an
altitude of one mile.
Participants this year include teams from Auburn University in
Auburn, AL; Alabama A&M University in Huntsville; the
University of Alabama in Huntsville; Harding University in Searcy,
AR; Mississippi State University in Starkville; Missouri University
of Science & Technology in Rolla; the University of North
Dakota in Grand Forks; Fisk University in Nashville, TN; Vanderbilt
University in Nashville; Utah State University in Logan; and the
College of Menominee Nation in Green Bay, WI.
"It's a pleasure and a privilege to invite these teams to
participate in this year's challenge," said Tammy Rowan, manager of
the Marshall Center's Academic Affairs Office. "The University
Student Launch Initiative is a vital part of NASA's education
mission -- helping foster new generations of scientists, engineers
and explorers."
Each team raises its own funds for the project and associated
travel, or seeks sponsorship by local businesses or aerospace
industry.
The 2007-2008 challenge will conclude in spring 2008, when the
student teams gather in Huntsville for a final launch activity.