The University of Florida’s 4-H Youth Development Program is sparking interest in space-based careers among kids statewide by incorporating space science into STEM lessons. The program aims to inspire youth to pursue careers in the aerospace industry, particularly in Florida. One of the program’s initiatives, Go for Launch!, is a space-focused event that trains teens as “space ambassadors” to teach other youth about space science. The event allows kids to design experiments that could potentially be launched to the International Space Station.
Past participants of the event have seen success, with one team’s experiment being conducted on the ISS. Florida 4-H is also involved in projects like the Tomatosphere, where students work with tomato seeds that have been to space to study how microgravity affects seed germination. Additionally, students have worked on Moon Trees, trees that grew from seedlings taken to space on lunar missions. These programs aim to excite kids about science and teach them valuable skills like leadership and teamwork.
UF’s 4-H program offers a variety of opportunities for youth to explore different topics and develop skills for future careers. By engaging in space-based experiments and projects, students are able to learn about the connections between space science and various other fields like agriculture and plant science. More information about the program and its offerings can be found online.
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Photo credit floridapolitics.com
