HASSE Junior Space School An International Study Program INFORMATION KIT
To our students Every expedition starts with a dream, an idea, a first step and the urge to explore. Dare to dream big The ivicon Australia Team
Contents The future... 3 About us... 4 HASSE Junior Space School... 5 Learning Outcomes... 5 STEM and space action in Houston... 7 Come face to face with astronauts at Johnson Space Center, Houston... 7 Witness history at Rice University... 9 Forensics at TM Education Center... 9 Dissect a shark at Texas A&M University... 9 Motivation and Personal Development... 11 Astronaut Training... 13 U.S. Space & Rocket Center... 13 Join the space missions... 14 Train like the experts... 14 Program itinerary... 16 Safety and support... 19 ivicon Group Managers and Teaching Assistants... 19 Medical support... 19 ivicon U.S. Support... 20 Medical form... 20 Travel and Medical Insurance... 20 Code of Conduct... 21 Testimonials from past students... 23 Frequently Asked Questions... 27 Get in touch... 29 ivicon.com.au facebook.com/iviconaustralia youtube.com/iviconaustralia
THE REAL DEAL INSPIRATIONAL SPEAKERS GREAT TEAMS HASSE JUNIOR SPACE SCHOOL COME AND JOIN US TRAIN LIKE AN ASTRONAUT ACTION AND FUN HANDS-ON SCIENCE 2
The future With today s world ever advancing technologically, we are living at the speed of science. Exciting projects such as NASA s Journey to Mars 2030 a fascinating program that will see a human presence established beyond Earth draw the attention to the scientific challenges being faced despite humankind s ever increasing knowledge. The constant need for new, talented people and fresh ideas is reflected in many other industries where Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) play a major role in creating tomorrow s inventions. A huge opportunity awaits all students who nurture their interest in these areas as 75% of the fastest growing occupations require a STEM based education. Acknowledging this challenge, we aim to bridge the gap between education and industry and to inspire by providing highly engaging, exciting learning programs that empower youth for changing times To fulfil this promise, ivicon works tirelessly with entrepreneurs, scholars, NASA scientists and astronauts in the quest to provide our students with the most relevant, unique and exciting study programs. 3
About us ivicon Limited was founded in 2003 in Houston USA and is committed to be the bridge to the Invisible Continent. With branches in Houston, Taipei, Shanghai and Sydney, ivicon is a truly international company and an active, positive enterprise with a strong sense of commitment. As the exclusive global partner of HASSE the Houston Association for Space and Science Education, a 501 [c][3] nonprofit organisation with its headquarter in Houston, Texas ivicon delivers the HASSE Space School program. This unique program is designed with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for students to foster their interest in space and has since grown to become an inspired curriculum made available to more than 8000 students in the past 13 years. Based on this rich experience, ivicon Australia and its team of specialists from all over the world have developed a program specially for Australian students a program that is exciting, innovative and unique with a focus on personal development and the integration of space and earth science. We draw knowledge from the industry s best; working with astronauts, engineers and scientists. We change the setting of a classroom to inspiring world renowned locations. We apply a problem based learning approach to provide our students with collaborative and contextual learning, the ability to set and achieve goals and a positive outlook on life. 4
HASSE Junior Space School ivicon is proud to present the HASSE Junior Space School International Study Program, a specifically developed STEM program that broadens the mind, cultivates drive and instils curiosity and the spirit of exploration. Two weeks two states one giant goal dream big! To reach this objective, HASSE Junior Space School s 14 day expedition to Houston, TX and Huntsville AL immerses students in an exceptional experience that builds skills in goal setting, project planning, independent thinking and problem solving. The unique opportunity to get up close with the experts astronauts, engineers and scientists at NASA and to learn about science in exciting environments such as Johnson Space Center Houston, US Space and Rocket Center Huntsville, the Houston Museum of Natural Science and Rice and Texas A&M University, turns this expedition into a once in a lifetime journey. Learning Outcomes Development of critical thinking and problem solving Application of STEM in challenging space missions Effectiveness in collaborative teamwork Leadership skills including leading by influence Learning to set and achieve targets Creative thinking and innovation Initiative and responsibility Curiosity and imagination Pursuit of personal values and long term goals 5
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STEM and space action in Houston Come face to face with astronauts at Johnson Space Center, Houston Expedition members have the rare opportunity to visit the Johnson Space Center in Houston, NASA s centre for human spaceflight activities. While exploring the wonders of space exploration in facilities such as the Astronaut Training Center, Rocket Center and the Mission Control Center, students learn about past and future endeavours of the American manned space flight program. An unforgettable experience awaits all members of HASSE Junior Space School via the unique opportunity to come face to face with astronauts as well as hear guest speakers such as NASA scientists and engineers during personalised presentations, an exclusive lunch or a special event. We thank Dr Leroy Chiao, former NASA Astronaut and ISS Commander, Special Adviser to the White House and Special Adviser to HASSE; Clayton Anderson, former NASA Astronaut with 166 days in space; and Dr Andrea Hanson, Engineer and Senior Scientist for Exercise Physiology for their recent contributions during the HASSE Junior Space School expedition in December 2015. Furthermore, we would like to thank Professor David Alexander, Scientist; Mr David Cisco, Engineer and Mr Kenneth Cameron, Astronaut for their support during the June 2015 expedition. 7
Source: Rice University "I believe that this nation should commit itself to achieving the goal, before this decade is out, of landing a man on the moon and returning him safely to the earth. No single space project in this period will be more impressive to mankind, or more important for the long-range exploration of space." President Kennedy, Rice University Campus, 12 September 1962 8
Witness history at Rice University Known for its close collaboration with NASA, Rice University also holds a prestigious reputation as one of the top universities in the United States. HASSE students are given the opportunity to participate in a guided tour of the university that visits the place where President Kennedy gave his famous moon landing speech. Forensics at Texas Medical Education Center Guided by medical experts, students face the exciting challenge to dissect an eye or a heart. Moreover, they ll learn about forensic science. They will take on the role of a crime lab investigator and try to piece together a murder case. Dissect a shark at Texas A&M University Highly acclaimed and named as one of the best public universities, Texas A&M University provides the facilities for students to undertake their own shark dissection. Students are trained by the University in marine biology prior to performing a supervised dissection. Team work, critical thinking and problem solving Learning can be fun, especially when you are at NASA and the other exciting locations which form part of this program. With a strong emphasis on team work, students are encouraged to think and solve problems in a team context. Various challenging activities such as Crime Scene Investigation and DNA analysis at the Cell Lab encourage critical thinking and improve students problem solving capabilities. 9
10 Source: nasa.gov
Back your team at NBA or MLB Students have the opportunity to attend either a Major League Baseball (MLB) or a National Basketball Association (NBA) game, both of which provide an inspiring sense of scale and excitement. The MLB is one of the four most popular major sports leagues in North America. It has the highest season attendance of any sports league in the world with over 74 million spectators in 2013. The National Basketball Association (NBA) is the pre eminent professional basketball league in North America and is widely considered to be the premier professional basketball league in the world. Motivation and Personal Development Throughout the program students are trained on the 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens by Sean Covey. Together with the HASSE Blueprint for Success, these habits form the backbone of the Junior Space School Program. Students are taught and encouraged to incorporate the learning into their personal as well as school life: Be proactive Start with the end in mind Put first things first Think win-win Seek first to understand, then to be understood Synergise Sharpen the saw 11
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Astronaut Training During the week at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center (USSRC), Huntsville, students experience the thrill and challenges astronauts face during their training for NASA space missions. Teamwork, critical thinking and crisis management are required during two true to life space mission simulations and focus is vital when students train on the Multi Axis Trainer, 5 Degrees of Freedom or the 1/6 Gravity Chair. Exciting group projects include the design of a lunar base model or a heatshield which will undergo real life testing and promote creativity and imagination. USSRC certified crew trainers together with ivicon certified Group Managers ensure students are challenged and encouraged according to their own abilities. U.S. Space & Rocket Center A truly amazing facility, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center (USSRC) has one of the largest collections of spaceflight training equipment and artefacts in the world and at certain times of the year, it opens its doors exclusively to HASSE students. The Center provides expedition members with a huge range of rich content, exhibits and interactive activities to inspire and generate interest in space, science, mathematics, and the latest technology. HASSE Junior Space School students have the full astronaut experience while staying on site at the space habitat in Huntsville. 13
Join the space missions Students will engage in immersive simulations and feel the excitement of performing their very own space missions. By taking on various roles as flight commander, mission control or a space crew member, students apply leadership and teamwork skills in realistic simulations. Throughout the challenge, students are encouraged to think independently and propose innovative solutions to problems they encounter. Train like the experts 5 Degrees of Freedom Chair The 5DF was a vital piece of training equipment used by the astronauts of the Gemini and Apollo programs. It allowed them to train in a frictionless environment and gain the critical skills to perform an array of tasks such as vital repairs during their missions. The trainer allows astronauts to move in five different directions: forward, backwards, roll, yaw, side to side and pitch. Manned Manoeuvring Unit (MMU) This apparatus allows astronauts to perform untethered Extra Vehicular Activity (EVA) spacewalks at a distance from the space vehicle to perform repairs, satellite retrieval and other activities. The MMU simulation trainer is used to simulate the frictionless micro gravity environment that exists outside the space vehicle. Students will train like astronauts when they pilot the MMU to practice the 5 degrees of freedom. 14
1/6 Gravity Chair The 1/6th Gravity Chair is designed to simulate the moon s gravitational pull, which is 1/6 that of Earth s body weight on the moon = 1/6 of the body weight on earth. Students will learn to adopt the three key movements introduced by the Apollo astronauts to efficiently walk on the lunar surface: the bunny hop, side to side and a slow motion jog. It s a challenge to move forward instead of up and down and staying in control will take some effort. Multi Axis Trainer (MAT) Another vital piece of training equipment for today s astronauts, the MAT simulates the disorientation an astronaut would feel during a tumble spin, simulating what may occur on re entry to the earth s atmosphere. Strap in and hold on as the MAT spins on 3 separate axes at once! Students will need to focus in order to maintain their sense of balance and direction. 15
Program itinerary WEEK A : HOUSTON Day 1 A unique experience begins with HASSE Junior Space School! Students depart Australia for Houston, TX with a flight time of approximately 20 22 hours. On arrival into Houston, students check in to their hotel for an initial brief and a well earned rest in readiness for an exciting program. Day 7 Day 6 Day 5 Day 4 Day 3 Day 2 The first morning in Houston starts with the official HASSE Opening Ceremony, an introduction to the 7 Habits and teambuilding activities. Students visit the Wiess Energy Hall to explore the process of energy development and how various types of energy are used. Students will proceed to conducting challenging DNA analysis at the Cell Lab and solving a mystery case at CSI s Body of Evidence. Students are invited to enjoy a very special Welcome Dinner. Students start the day with a full breakfast and taking part in HASSE activities, namely the HASSE dance and Morning Quiz. An engaging presentation of Habit 1 Be proactive sets the right mindset for the activity to come: an in depth look into marine biology at Texas A&M University including the unique opportunity to dissect a shark. A great cultural experience awaits the group in the Old Town of Galveston before heading back to the hotel for a well deserved dinner and rest. Day 4 starts with the HASSE activities and a typical Texan breakfast. In line with the habit of the day Begin with the end in mind students explore aviation history in the lead up to their own space adventure. During a tour of Rice University, the group visits the venue at which President Kennedy gave his famous speech about travelling to the moon. The day concludes with a stop at the outlet mall and a JSC brief. After completing the HASSE morning activities the expedition sets off to explore the vast facilities of Johnson Space Center. Students visit Mission Control, the Astronaut Training Complex and various exhibitions. After dinner in downtown it s an early night to get ready for an exciting Day 6. Today students are granted a VIP experience at NASA s JSC where they either attend lunch with an astronaut or an inspiring astronaut presentation. After this exciting day exploring JSC, the group heads back to the hotel for some team activities and time to reflect on their day. On the last day in Houston, students are in for a special treat. After a motivational speech by an industry expert, a scientist, astronaut or engineer, students are immersed in the full cultural experience of attending a live NBA or MLB game, depending on the season. 16
WEEK B : HUNTSVILLE Day 8 Goodbye Houston, hello Huntsville! The group departs the hotel for the 2 hour flight to the next destination, the US Space and Rocket Center (USSRC), Huntsville. Students check in to the onsite accommodation, meet their crew trainer and tour the Center s facilities. Day 14 /15 Day 13 Day 12 Day 11 Day 10 Day 9 After breakfast and a morning lecture, students get straight into astronaut training at USSRC. The Alpha Space Mission has participants working as a team to perform an array of tasks and simulations to mimic a real space mission. Students scale the climbing wall, imagining they are making their way up the 22km to the summit of Mars Olympus Mons! They take a tumble in the Multi Axis Trainer, designed to simulate disorientation on re entry into the earth s atmosphere. A challenging day awaits the students as they undergo Area 51 teamwork and leadership training to expand their critical thinking and problem solving skills. Back at camp, students receive professional guidance to construct their own rocket before experiencing first hand how to overcome difficulties associated with working in a neutral buoyancy environment. After dinner, students attend an evening lecture on aviation history s most prominent missions. After breakfast, students are amazed viewing the Saturn V, the most powerful rocket ever launched and used in the Apollo 11 mission, which landed man on the moon for the first time. Following a 3D robotics movie, students get the chance to launch their own rockets on USSRC soil. The day s final activity is the use of the Manned Manoeuvring Unit, which simulates the frictionless environment of outer space. Today students demonstrate their knowledge, teamwork and leadership skills during their lunar base presentation and their final space mission. After successful completion of the projects, students use the 1/6th gravity chair to simulate and master a moon walk. The final expedition day. Students of the HASSE Junior Space School expedition attend the official graduation ceremony and are awarded with the HASSE and US Space and Rocket Center certificates. Students then depart USSRC and head to Huntsville airport for the journey home. Expedition completed! With a transit time of approximately 20 22 hours students have time to reflect on their adventure and are farewelled with a closing ceremony at the airport when the group arrives back on Australian soil. *Proposed itinerary, subject to change Week A and B are interchangeable 17
18 Source: nasa.gov
Safety and support ivicon Group Managers and Teaching Assistants All ivicon Australia Group Managers are diligently selected as well as trained and certified under the ivicon Academy standard. The extensive training enables ivicon Group Managers to create an environment in which students are not just guided and supported but where activities are made meaningful, inspiring and challenging according to each student s needs and skill level. To first create a bond while on Australian soil, Group Managers are introduced to all students and their parents during the Preparation Day in the lead up to departure. In addition to the Group Manager, each expedition is joined by an ivicon certified Teaching Assistant who supports the delivery of the program. Medical support Fast and professional medical support is provided in Houston by doctors of Houston Medical Center and Houston Hospital. In Huntsville, Registered Nurses at U.S. Space and Rocket Center have further support of the local hospital. In both destinations, students can additionally rely on a 24 hour emergency back up from US ivicon support staff. 19
ivicon U.S. Support In addition to ivicon Group Managers and Teaching assistants who accompany the students throughout the entire program, ivicon s highly experienced local US support team offers emergency back up and onsite support if required. Medical form All students are required to complete the HASSE Space School medical form as part of their preparation process. To be able to best address any safety concerns and minimise risks in the planning and delivery of the program, it is crucial that the information provided is accurate and complete. We recommend all students consult their doctor for up to date advice on travelling with existing medical conditions. Travel and Medical Insurance As part of ivicon s risk management protocol, a group insurance policy is issued to cover all participants for the duration of the expedition. Upon completion of all documents, our trusted agent, one of Australia s leading providers of travel insurance and emergency assistance, offers a comprehensive cover for injury or illness, theft of valuables, damage to baggage and cancellations or travel interruptions under the terms of the policy. The standard Comprehensive Cover is based on an excess of A$100. Alterations to the policy or extensions of cover beyond the program dates are available but may incur an extra cost. 20
Code of Conduct The following Code of Conduct is a guide for students behaviour while on the HASSE Junior Space School Program. While general in nature, it does contain specific rules and advice. By joining the HASSE Junior Space School International Study Program, students and parents acknowledge their acceptance of this Code of Conduct, including but not limited to: - Students must actively participate and follow the program s daily itinerary and activities - Program attendance is compulsory - Students should demonstrate a proper manner and attitude while participating in the program - Students must not travel within the local area alone, or with other students - Any possession or use of, or involvement with illicit drugs, cigarettes or alcohol is strictly forbidden - Students must not commit any criminal offence - Access to improper web sites or display of improper material is strictly forbidden - Students must not injure/assault, threaten to injure/assault other students or any other person - Students must not drive a vehicle, or travel on a motorbike - Hitchhiking is strictly forbidden - The ivicon Group Manager must approve all activities outside of the scheduled activities - Students must not go out after dinner unless accompanied by an ivicon Group Manager, Teaching Assistant or Staff, or unless prior written consent has been given by the ivicon Group Manager - Students must not visit nightclubs/licensed bars of any kind - Partying in the hotel room is strictly forbidden Failure to adhere to the above rules may result in a student being asked to leave the program or sent home at the earliest convenience with costs incurred to the parents account. 21
Empowering youth for changing times 22
Testimonials from past students A once in a lifetime experience! In its 10 year history, HASSE has had thousands of alumni from all over the world. This elite group includes students who have gone on to attend prestigious colleges and universities such as Stanford and Princeton University and who have started successful careers in science, engineering, mathematics and other fields. "HASSE has taught me that no matter how crazy your idea is, you should really speak it out because it takes radical ideas to succeed in the projects concerning fields never explored." Klara, Singapore American School "I learned a lot in this space school, so much I can t cover, but the most important thing is that winning or losing doesn t matter, as long as we grow both in mind and spirit." Daniel, Shanghai American School 23
" Overall it is one of the highlights of my year - not only because I've gained so much knowledge to do with space, NASA, science, astronauts and rockets, but also because I've met so many wonderful and unique people and tried things I never thought I would do. Winona, Abbotsleigh, Sydney "I had a lot of chances to experiment with leading - what to do and what not to do that really helped me to grow as a person. James, Knox Grammar School, Sydney "My experience at HASSE Space School allowed me to learn more about space, myself and others. It challenged my thinking and made me explore ideas outside of the box. It also gave me opportunities to meet and bond with girls in other year groups. Overall it was an incredible experience Kaytlyn, Abbotsleigh, Sydney 24
" I learned that being an astronaut is not easy and there are lots of stops and bumps along the way but once you overcome them, you can achieve big and go a long way in your career. Every person has the ability to achieve their goals. Lauren, Abbotsleigh, Sydney "I had a chance to be one step closer to my dream. The encouraging words from James and all Space Program teachers deeply touched me, making me believe that although it seems impossible, I have all the abilities and the potential to achieve anything I want. I feel something building up in my heart, growing bigger every moment, urging me to pursue my dream. If I have to sum up this trip in to a few words, I would say I ve found the strength and courage to realise my dream. Mia, Waseda University 25
26 Source: nasa.gov
FAQs Who should consider joining the HASSE Junior Space School International Study Program? Students who are looking for an exciting motivational study program to hone their skill sets such as critical thinking and problem solving, team work as well as curiosity and imagination. Students who are keen to broaden their horizons during an international experience while having fun and making new friends. Students who are interested in pursuing a science or non science career path. Who will be responsible for students while in the US? ivicon Group Managers guide and support all students throughout the duration of the program. All ivicon Australia Group Managers are diligently selected and trained and certified under the ivicon Academy standard. ivicon certified Teaching Assistants join each group to assist in the delivery of the course content. On school based expeditions, an additional teacher per group can be selected by the school to accompany the students. Do I need to arrange my own flight and insurance? To ensure the quality of the program and provide comprehensive risk management, group airfare tickets and group travel/medical insurance will be organised and made available by ivicon Australia. Is there a refund policy? The refund policy including applicable time frames is stipulated in the student agreement. For further details and terms and conditions, please refer to the contract. 27
Will I need much spending money? All meals, accommodation and transport during the expedition are covered in the program cost. Students will only need pocket money for the occasional treats, personal items and for the purchase of souvenir items or postcards. If I cannot join this time, is the program available in the future? ivicon aims to build long term relationships with member schools that offer HASSE Space School as an international study program. This hopefully means the opportunity exists for additional future expeditions to be arranged but the frequency cannot be guaranteed. In addition, the program cost may vary due to exchange rate fluctuations and program content modifications. Do I need to apply for a visa to the USA? Australia is one of the countries currently participating in the USA Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This program allows citizens of 37 nominated countries including Australia, New Zealand and the UK, to travel to the United States for tourism or business for up to 90 days without having to obtain a special visa. Students with Australian citizenship are required to obtain a travel authorization prior to initiating travel to the United States. Authorisation may be obtained online through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), an internet application administered by the Department of Homeland Security. Please visit https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta. A fee of USD$14 applies. For all students who are nationals of countries not participating in the Visa Waiver Program, ivicon Australia will provide relevant supporting information to assist with the USA Visa application. 28
Get in touch We always look forward to hearing from our alumni about how much they enjoyed their experience at HASSE Space School. Equally, we look forward to hearing from you telling us why you want to join this amazing expedition. Submit your interest now to secure a spot on the next HASSE Junior Space School expedition and become part of this exciting adventure. For any questions, please contact us on 1300 303 402. ivicon Australia Have a giant goal and believe in it 29
30 Source: nasa.gov
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ivicon Australia Suite 2B, Level 2, 802 Pacific Highway, Gordon NSW 2072, Australia t: 1300 303 402 e: enquiries@ivicon.com.au w: ivicon.com.au www.facebook.com/iviconaustralia www.youtube.com/iviconaustralia SYDNEY MELBOURNE BRISBANE HOUSTON PRINCETON TAIPEI SHANGHAI TOKYO