Day 8
Friday
The rovers that we made on Monday were put through an obstacle course that simulated the surface of Mars. The rovers’ purpose was to analyse, pick up small rock samples and return these to base camp. Each team found that the Mars environment severely tested the design capabilities of the rovers - which resulted in several missing wheels!
Following this we were extremely fortunate to have two guest speakers – first was a presentation from Astronaut Andy Thomas on the subject of the International Space Station and his personal experiences of space missions. The second was from Patrick Buzzard who described his role at Johnson Space Center and the work he is currently involved with on the Constellation programme. Fascinating stuff!
Although we were scheduled to launch our rockets in the afternoon, sadly the Scottish weather had caught up with us. The heavy rain meant that launch had to be cancelled and re-scheduled for Saturday – fingers crossed!
In the evening we were invited to the home of Neal and Jeannie Pellis for dinner and a ‘Music Night’. Our hosts had kindly set up microphones and speakers in the lounge and all those able to play an instrument or sing did so.
By Sarah Costantino and Shona Campbell.
