Territory students to talk to astronauts as part of Science Week celebrations

Territory students will have the opportunity to chat with astronauts as part of Science Week. Found out how your child can get involved.

Interested schools can still register for the exciting space program.

Territory students will be given the rare opportunity to talk to astronauts as part of Science Week 2025 celebrations.

There will be four days of interactive online activities beginning on August 11 for Territory students through the Mission: SPACE program organised by Scitech and the Australian Space Agency.

Australia’s first female astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg will take part in the program.

“Being an astronaut with the Australian flag on my shoulder represents the hard work, innovation and ambition of all Australians working in STEM fields,” Ms Bennell-Pegg said.

Australia’s first female astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg. Picture: Australian Space Agency

“These virtual excursions are an important platform to reach into classrooms with thousands of Australian students.

“I’m grateful for the chance to help inspire this next generation of space innovators through the vast range of careers space offers.

“I want more young people to be encouraged by this – knowing that they too can be part of Australia’s space future.”

Scitech Primary STEM Coordinator Ryan Forsyth said Mission: SPACE would encourage students to explore the possibilities of space careers, while also helping them develop essential skills.

Scitech Primary STEM Coordinator Ryan Forsyth. Picture: Supplied

“We’ll be bringing the science of space alive, with spectacular demonstrations, fun quizzes and even some appearances from Zog the alien,” Mr Forsyth said.

“We’re really excited to be sharing interviews with real space experts, highlighting the many different career pathways in the space sector.

“Students will not only learn what it’s like to be an astronaut, but also a space communicator, systems engineer, technology officer, space policy adviser, and a researcher who’s working on how to grow plants in space.”

So far eleven schools have signed up and organisers say there is still room for more before the August 10 cut off.

Registrations for the virtual excursions are open at www.scitech.org.au/mission-space