Eltham College Pupils at Edge into Space Finals
On Friday and Saturday the 28th and 29th April Nathan Allen and Charles Simpson under the team name ‘Space 4 Improvement’ attended the national finals of the ‘Edge into Space Competition’ sponsored by NASA and BBC television. The two Year 11 boys had made it through to the national finals against 23 teams, which had been selected from an initial entry of over 1000. The concept and the design were entirely of the boys’ own making. They designed a presentation, filmed it and were invited as a result to attend the final. The event was held in Birmingham and included a speech from Britain’s leading space astronaut Michael Foale. The teams made final presentations at the ‘Think Tank’ science museum to a panel of judges including representatives of NASA, the BBC and leading space scientists such as Colin Pillinger, well know for his Mars probe.
Space 4 Improvement’s entry investigated the possibility of providing a new energy source in space and the presentation included a full scientific experiment. Despite what the judges described as “a flawless presentation”, the team were not winners but had an interesting and enjoyable experience and the opportunity to make a brief appearance on BBC Breakfast television!
The team are grateful to the support given by the staff of Eltham College and in particular Mr Pollard who accompanied the team.
Links
BBC News | Edge Into Space | NASA