RM Technology, SaxaVord Spaceport and ViewSonic have announced a groundbreaking partnership to cultivate the next generation of talent for the space industry.
This collaboration will kick start the innovative Starflight Academy 2.0 this summer, building on the success of 2023’s hugely successful launch at Goodwood FOS. The initiative, aimed at addressing resource challenges in schools, will provide interactive and inspiring STEAM resources centred around space education. The four-week programme, curated by renowned Astronaut teacher Mike Mongo, offers a unique opportunity for children to delve into the world of satellites and space exploration.
Mike Mongo, selected by Uplift Aerospace in 2022 to train their first commercial astronaut crew and the author of the best-selling book ‘The Astronaut Instruction Manual,’ brings a wealth of experience to this initiative. His approach to space education merges practical astronaut skills with STEAM learning, aiming to spark a lifelong interest in space science and exploration among students. "The UK is presently home to one of the most successful space industries in the world. Giving UK students permission to see themselves in space careers is an absolute honour. I don’t know that I have ever been more excited as I am working together with RM Education, SaxaVord Spaceport, and ViewSonic in support of preparing today’s UK students for tomorrow’s STEAM jobs in space, AI, and high-tech,” said Mike Mongo, Astronaut Teacher.
The partners believe in putting young minds at the centre of the UK’s scientific future, fostering a passion for space and a curiosity that will contribute significantly to scientific advancements. STEAM, which integrates arts into STEM, emphasises experimentation and creativity, encouraging children to engage with space science in diverse and innovative ways. Space is already a vital part of the UK’s economy, contributing to over £16.4 billion per year and employing over 45,000 people. Creating opportunities for young learners through Starflight Academy will equip students to join this energetic workforce. The initiative is designed specifically for children, giving them the best possible experience and opportunity to realise their full potential.
“RM has been developing the programme alongside SaxaVord and ViewSonic since the successful launch at Future Lab last year. The virtual programme, RM Starflight Academy, aims to create new ambitions for young people, giving access to all pupils, no matter where they live or what tools they have available,” said Jason Tomlinson, MD of RM Technology. “The UK is leading the way in nurturing talent from a young age, helping to secure its position at the centre of international science innovation by 2030. With our partner ViewSonic, we’re utilising technology to foster a STEAM initiative that is accessible and fair, bringing much-needed resources to schools, whilst supporting the next generation to access tomorrow’s jobs in the Space and aerospace sector.”
Debbie Strang, SaxaVord Spaceport COO, said: "This exciting and developing partnership dovetails perfectly with our strategic business objective of inspiring interest in space and STEM subjects among children and young people, which we have delivered since we created SaxaVord. The initiative marks the start of a process of taking this work to the next level and we are delighted to be working with RM Technology and ViewSonic to reach as many learners as we can."
Ricky Kumar, Country Manager UKI at ViewSonic added: "We are excited to continue our journey with RM and SaxaVord after the successful Future Lab event at Goodwood Festival of Speed. Learning is a journey into a world of limitless possibilities, and at ViewSonic, we are committed to supporting all our partners in making this journey as enriching as possible and making learning engaging and deeply relevant to meet the diverse needs of learners and educators."
For more information visit: https://www.rm.com/education, https://saxavord.com and www.viewsonic.com