Our Lady of the Rosary School Caloundra Year 5 budding scientists were hard at work last month helping save humankind from a hypothetical asteroid collision with the moon.
Using the Makers Empire 3D design and print app to create nine 3D printed life support systems, the students won first place at the Queensland finals of The Andy Thomas Space Foundation ‘Kids in Space’ challenge, powered by the Australian Space Agency at Griffith University on the Gold Coast.
Our Lady of the Rosary School Principal Michael Stewart said students went through the design stages to produce creative solutions to sustain life on Earth, part of the challenge set by the competition.
“Our Year 5 students cleverly used space technology to design nine life support systems which could help sustain life if an asteroid collided with the moon,” he said.
“They really thought of everything including shelter from cyclones, floods, fires, and the cold, and emergency communications systems, air quality, and transport.
“The students also had to use critical and creative thinking to produce their 3D designs.”
The Principal said the challenge allowed students to develop their humanities, social sciences, and technology skills and learn the abilities required for different jobs and industries in the future.
“I am truly blown away by how our students passionately shared their learning and showcased their ideas,” he said.
“I hope this experience has inspired a few of our Year 5 students to pursue a career in the space industry.”
As part of their win, the Our Lady of the Rosary School team will attend the Australian Space Discovery Centre in Adelaide in October to represent Queensland with their innovative inventions.
About The Andy Thomas Space Foundation State Kids in Space challenge: