Anglesey school pupils talk with NASA astronaut Frank Rubio in virtual meeting

Students at Ysgol Cemaes on Anglesey spoke virtually with NASA astronaut Frank Rubio on Wednesday. Rubio is part of the crew for the Artemis III mission, which aims to return humans to the Moon in 2027. He previously spent 371 days, or more than a year, aboard the International Space Station after a fault with his return spacecraft.

The Virtual Visit

During the session, pupils asked Rubio about living and working in space. Acting headteacher Guto Rhys said students were extremely excited and had watched videos about life on the ISS. Nine-year-old Harry said learning about NASA and Rubio was the most interesting part of his day. Eight-year-old Sofia noted they learned about space medical kits, teeth brushing, and sleeping in space. Lola, also nine, was delighted to see Rubio holding a space badge designed by a pupil at the school. Ruby, 10, said no other schools in Wales will get that experience.

Future Plans

The school's growing links with the space industry were made possible by former pupil and scientist Dr Melanie Coathup, who works closely with astronauts. Earlier this year, students designed a badge that was sent into space and floated in zero gravity aboard the ISS. The school now plans to design a new badge soon and send another one into space next year.

Context

Astronauts spend extended periods aboard the International Space Station to conduct scientific research in microgravity. Missions like Artemis III represent NASA's ongoing efforts to return crewed flights to the lunar surface. School outreach programs help inspire interest in science and space exploration among young students.