Curious about the experience of sleeping in space? Ever tasted a New Mexico chile? Is microgravity as enjoyable as it appears? These were some of the fascinating inquiries directed at NASA Astronaut Christina Koch during a live interaction from the International Space Station, hosted by The University of New Mexico.
Students from various schools across New Mexico gathered at the UNM Student Union Building to engage in the NASA In-Flight Education Downlink. Each year, NASA selects specific educational institutions to facilitate live discussions with astronauts, making this a unique opportunity for students.
“Hello to The University of New Mexico, the International Space Station has you loud and clear,” Christina Koch announced, kicking off an inspiring and educational session.
UNM Biology Professor David Hanson, who played a key role in organizing and co-hosting the event alongside The Children’s Hour radio show and UNM IT, expressed his pride in the collaboration. “I’ve never been prouder to be in New Mexico and at UNM than I was today,” he stated. “It was a community effort to make this happen, and everyone involved contributed to making the event fantastic. The students put a lot of thought into their questions, and Christina Koch provided an incredible insight into life in space.”
The event was free and open to K-12 students throughout New Mexico, featuring hands-on activities organized by various community groups.
Encouraging Future STEM Leaders
Professor Hanson highlighted the significance of the event in nurturing a pipeline of STEM education opportunities for students of all ages. Prior to the event, students submitted questions regarding life on the space station, NASA’s plans for deep space exploration, and scientific research in microgravity, all of which Koch addressed during the 20-minute session.
In addition to making these experiences accessible, Koch is on track to set a record for the longest single spaceflight by a woman. She also made history in October by participating in the first all-female spacewalk alongside fellow astronaut Jessica Meir.
The International Space Station In-flight Education Downlinks are part of NASA's broader initiative to inspire K-12 students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). These downlinks, organized by the Johnson Space Center Office of STEM Engagement, utilize the extraordinary experiences of human spaceflight to enhance STEM education.
Katie Stone, executive director of The Children’s Hour, announced that the downlink will be broadcast on Saturday, Dec. 14 at 9 a.m. on KUNM. “Our interview with Astronaut Christina Koch left everyone in the room buoyant with inspiration and possibility, and our crew was incredibly honored to have been a part of it,” Stone remarked.