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NASA: Aerospace Science In-Service Institute Information for Teachers

Other Releases
Washington, DC
January 8, 2009

AEROSPACE SCIENCE IN-SERVICE INSTITUTE


Notice to Teachers in Elementary and Secondary Schools
Assisted by the U.S. Department of State

INSTITUTE SPONSORS AND LOCATION

The Department of State, Office of Overseas Schools, is encouraging applications from teachers, grade one through grade twelve, who can be in the United States for an in-service training institute to be held at Kennedy Space Center, Florida, from Monday, June 15 to Thursday, June 25, 2009. The major emphasis for this program is geared for a curriculum used by middle school teachers, however teachers at all levels are welcome to attend as portions of this institute are suitable for all grade levels and the other portions can be adapted by the instructor.

The Aerospace Science Institute will be sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, Office of Overseas Schools (A/OPR/OS), and conducted in conjunction with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Educational Resource Center (NASA/ERC) at Kennedy Space Center (KSC), in Titusville, FL . KSC is responsible for NASA's Shuttle Launch Services, human space flight program, planning and implementing the human exploration and development of space.

TOPICS AND ACTIVITIES


This intensive program combines classroom instruction by NASA technical experts, with an evening event with former or current astronauts. The program also includes significant hands-on instruction from NASA educational specialists who will demonstrate techniques for taking this information and knowledge effectively into the classroom. A series of enrichment activities including visits to the Kennedy Space Center's Saturn V Complex and an opportunity to visit the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame. Daily sessions are held between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., with some evening and weekend activities. Long pants, shoes with the heels and toes enclosed and socks must be worn on most days since NASA has regulations requiring this dress code.

A variety of topics concerning the human exploration and development of space will be covered, with particular focus on the International Space Station and the roll-out of the shuttle replacement vehicle, the Constellation Program scheduled for approximately 2012. Participants will receive information in many areas, including:

  • The Space Shuttle Program
    The International Space Station Program
    The Constellation Program
    Strategies/plans for lunar and Mars exploration
    Aeronautics principles
    Orbital mechanics principles
    Rocketry
    Space Environments
    Space Materials, including their selection and testing
    Living and working in space, including the effects of microgravity on the human physiology, design of crew modules for space living, space food, space suits and space tools.
    Astronaut training techniques
    Life support systems, including the growth of plants in space for long-duration flights
    Solar energy principals

Please be advised that some of the NASA locations may be restricted due to security requirements. The Institute also plans activities and events with some space-related contractors not located at Kennedy Space Center such as the Florida Solar Energy Center.

Participants will also receive detailed instructions on the use of the Internet to access all NASA educational and informational and educational assets and data repositories. In addition, a large quantity of NASA informational and educational material is provided on CD-ROM to each participant (text materials, photos, brochures, teacher guides, videos, poster, etc.) during the session. Materials can be shipped to participants after the institute is completed, if necessary.

OPTIONAL GRADUATE CREDIT


All participants can elect to receive three semester hours of graduate credit from the University of Central Florida after completion of the Institute and a tuition payment of $850.00. However, taking the Institute for credit is optional and in no way will affect selection or participation.

ACCOMMOCATIONS AND STIPEND


All participants are housed in condominiums at the La Cita Country Club in Titusville. Accompanying dependents are not allowed and cannot attend the sessions at the Kennedy Space Center. Participants will share condominium facilities and bedrooms/bathrooms. Separate beds are provided. A stipend of $250.00 is provided for each participant to assist in the cost of meals. There will be no cost to participants for housing. Transportation will be provided by vans from the Orlando International Airport in Florida at designated times on Monday, June 15, 2009. There will be a dinner on Monday night (June 15, 2009) with the Welcome/Reception beginning at 7:00 p.m. Please make your reservations to arrive by 2 p.m. on Monday at the latest. Participants will meet at the fountain in the Hyatt Airport Hotel (near Gates 60 - 99) for pick up. Transportation to and from KSC and the planned activities is provided on a daily basis. The contract does not provide funds for transportation for any other purpose.