On March 18 & 19, 2005, the Colonial Heights Aeronautics and Space Agency held its annual space mission. Every Wednesday after school since September, sixth, seventh, and eighth graders have entered room 213 at the Colonial Heights Middle School to become astronauts in training. 40 individuals were interested in becoming potential astronauts and through a selective application process and intense training they have been narrowed down to a team of thirty. On Friday night, these students worked together to “launch” the CHASA orbiter Colonial, on its third mission where it is scheduled to “dock” with the CHASA space station Eagle. The goals of the mission included a successful launch and landing of the orbiter, Lego TM rover research, design and remote operation, and the completion of numerous planned science experiments.
I had the opportunity to visit with these astronauts and their teachers on Friday night. I have been to a few of these space missions. My son was among the first astronauts of CHASA a few years ago. It never fails to amaze me the detail and planning that goes into a project like this. It takes great teamwork and dedication by teachers, technology staff , parents and volunteers to make everything run as smoothly as possible. The Leigh Wade AFA Chapter donated $400 towards this event that is sure to be remembered by the students for years to come. Julie Bowles, President.
CHASA pictures taken on March 18th are below. |