NASA Astronaut Inspires Students at Atal Tinkering Lab
In a remarkable event aimed at igniting scientific curiosity, Mike Massimino, a former NASA astronaut and current professor at Columbia University, visited the Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL) in Delhi today. His visit was designed to inspire young minds and promote innovation among students, providing them with a unique opportunity to engage with a veteran of two space shuttle missions and a key figure in the servicing of the Hubble Space Telescope.
Engaging with Future Innovators
Mike Massimino’s visit to the Atal Tinkering Lab was met with enthusiasm from students and faculty alike. He was welcomed by Ms. Alka Kapur, Principal of Modern Public School, and Mr. Shubham Gupta, Innovation Lead at AIM, NITI Aayog, who presented an overview of the Atal Tinkering Labs initiative. The ATL program aims to cultivate an innovative mindset among school students by providing them with hands-on experience in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
During the visit, students showcased various innovative projects they developed within the lab. These projects highlighted the positive impact of AIM in fostering problem-solving and critical thinking skills among young learners. Massimino also interacted with students involved in the AzaadiSat satellite launch, a collaborative effort between ISRO and Spacekidz. This initiative, which includes contributions from 750 girl students across 75 schools in India, features an eight-kilogram satellite equipped with 75 femto experiments, selfie cameras, and long-range communication transponders. Ms. Srimathy Kesan, Founder of Spacekidz, briefed Massimino on this groundbreaking project aimed at promoting girls in STEM fields.
Inspiring Dreams of Space Exploration
During his address to the students, Massimino shared captivating stories from his experiences as a NASA astronaut. He discussed the challenges faced during space missions and the future of space exploration, encouraging students to dream big and pursue their passions in STEM. His motivational speech resonated with the young audience, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and innovation in shaping the future.
Massimino’s insights into the world of space travel and technology served as a powerful reminder of the possibilities that lie ahead for aspiring scientists and engineers. His visit not only inspired students but also reinforced the significance of programs like the Atal Tinkering Labs in nurturing the next generation of innovators.
About Atal Tinkering Labs
Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) are part of the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) initiated by NITI Aayog. These labs are designed to foster an innovative mindset among school students by providing them with a creative workspace. ATLs enable young minds to bring their ideas to life through hands-on projects, utilizing tools and equipment that promote learning in STEM fields. The labs are equipped with educational kits, robotics tools, open-source microcontroller boards, sensors, 3D printers, and computers, allowing students to explore and develop their skills in a practical environment.
About Mike Massimino
Mike Massimino is a distinguished former NASA astronaut and a professor of mechanical engineering at Columbia University. He has an impressive academic background, holding a BS from Columbia University and multiple degrees from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, including a PhD in mechanical engineering. Massimino has participated in two space flights, specifically the fourth and fifth servicing missions of the Hubble Space Telescope. He holds the record for the most hours spent spacewalking during a single shuttle mission and was the first person to tweet from space. His contributions to space exploration have earned him numerous accolades, including two NASA Space Flight Medals and the NASA Distinguished Service Medal.
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