Launch Your Own Satellite
The satellite was one of the most important innovations of the 20th century. Since Sputnik became the first of its kind to be shot into space, more than 8,100 satellites have been launched. Today, satellites do everything from send cellular signals to monitor weather patterns to observe distant planets.
During the Atmospheric Payload Workshop, you and your fellow group members will have the opportunity to build and launch your very own satellite. The project will allow you to experience all aspects of the engineering design process, including prototyping and testing. You will then launch your satellite mission underneath a weather balloon.
Building and launching are just the beginning. Once your group's satellite returns from its mission, you will retrieve and analyze the atmospheric data collected, which you will use to create a presentation that demonstrates your findings.
Exclusive Access
During your time at the Aerospace Academy, you will also have exclusive access to aerospace- and aviation-related locations in the greater Houston area, such as Space Center Houston and Lonestar Flight Museum. You will interact with industry professionals and gain information about the wide array of opportunities available in the fields of aerospace and aviation.
At Lonestar Flight Museum, you will participate in a three-part experience that covers multiple components of aviation. Studying weather, forces on flight, safety, flight plans, and other important factors, your mission will conclude with an exciting flight simulation using state-of-the-art equipment.
During your visit to Space Center Houston, you will receive a behind-the-scenes tour of astronaut training and work facilities, such as NASA Johnson Space Center and Rocket Park, and see incredible pieces of history as you explore the numerous galleries in the Exhibit Hall.
You will leave the program and each site visit with a better understanding of what the future holds for space exploration and how you can be a part of this next wave of discovery.
In addition, you will also have the incredible opportunity to hear from a NASA speaker on 21st Century Space Innovations.
Rice University Faculty Forums
If you want to be the best, you have to learn from the best. During captivating Faculty Forums, you will hear from and interact with renowned members of Rice University's faculty. The forums will provide you with a glimpse at what your future collegiate educational experience will be like and also provide you with valuable knowledge and career insights.
Sample topics that may be covered include:
- Aerodynamics & Rocketry
- Satellite Systems & Operations
- Orbital Mechanics
- Rice University Admissions
Interactive Skills Workshops
It is no secret that the world is changing. Due to rapid advancements in technology and automation, the jobs of yesterday are no longer the jobs of
today, and the jobs of today are unlikely to be the jobs of tomorrow. Because of this, it is important to build key, transferable skills that will allow you to remain nimble in the ever-evolving economy of the future.
At the Aerospace Academy, you will participate in workshops that will introduce you to topics and challenges and help you build skills that you can apply both at the program and when you return home. Previous workshops included Space Challenges & Designer Solutions and Communication Worlds Away.
Additionally, you will take part in a workshop focused on understanding what drives you and how to recognize other personality types. The curriculum will also help you gain valuable 21st century success skills that will benefit you through high school, college, and your career, including information analysis, project management, and public speaking.