Idaho Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna announced today the availability of a new program to help parents and guardians of teen drivers. The Parent’s Supervised Driving Program, sponsored by Ford Motor Company, is designed to optimize the 50 hours (10 at night) of supervised driving teens are required to complete with parents before receiving their license.
“The skills outlined in this guide are meant to help teens learn to be better drivers. It is one of the ways Ford works to help teens,” said Steve Kenner, Global Director of Ford’s Automotive Safety Office. “In addition to this program, Ford also offers Driving Skills for Life, which gives teens advanced real world training. Ford also offers MyKey technology, which gives parents options to help encourage safe driving behaviors even when the parents aren’t in the car.”
The program is geared toward skill development, and expanding the conditions and time that teens drive with their parents as they move from written and skills tests, through the provisionary permit and licensing process to full driving privileges. The Parent’s Supervised Driving Program guides parents on how to approach each supervised driving session and how to continue education beyond the required 50 hours of supervised driving. The program also includes a driving log to help parents and teens track the required driving hours and the skills covered, the time of day and weather conditions experienced during each session.
“The State Department of Education is pleased to partner with Ford Motor Co. and the Idaho Transportation Department to make this resource available to parents and students across the state of Idaho,” Luna said. “Parents play a critical role in their children’s education, including their education behind the wheel. I encourage every parent to use The Parent’s Supervised Driving Program in helping every Idaho teen become a safe and responsible driver.”
“This exciting new opportunity will help young drivers develop and use the skills necessary to remain safe on our highways,” explains Ed Pemble, ITD’s driver services manager. “It will take driver education to a new level in Idaho and ultimately will result in fewer accidents and deaths.”
The program is available to parents and teens on multiple platforms, beginning with the printed curriculum that is distributed through driver’s license offices statewide when the teen receives his or her provisionary permit. The printed curriculum is divided into skills sets and asks parents and teens to initial each lesson as the material is covered and the
lessons are completed. The program is specific to the experience parents and teen encounter during the driver-education process and incorporates and supplements the driver’s manual and information provided by driver’s education instructors.
Parents and teens also are invited to access the program online and through social media. In addition, a free mobile app that will help parents and teens track their drive times is set to be released in the fall.
Through a public-private partnership with Ford Motor Company, the ITD and SDE are able to provide the valuable resource to parents of teen drivers at no cost to families or taxpayers. The Ford sponsorship allows the ITD and SDE to address a need and to provide parents with a resource to ensure their teen receives the best experience on the road before licensing during the state-required 50 hours of supervised driving.
The Parent’s Supervised Driving Program encourages parents and teens to drive in a variety of weather conditions, on different road types, including rural roads, highways, city streets, and heavy traffic routes, and during different times of day. Increased experience driving with parents is a key to reducing teen crash rates.
The program was developed in partnership with Safe Roads Alliance, a not-for-profit advocate for improved highway safety. “Parents are in the best position to assure that their teens become safe, smart drivers,” said President of Safe Roads Alliance Jeff Larson. “This program is a resource that will help teens make good decisions once they are licensed."
More information on the program and downloads of a PDF or e-reader file is available at online.
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Monday, July 29, 2013
DEPARTMENT HIRES ROGER QUARLES AS CHIEF DEPUTY SUPERINTENDENT
Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna announced today that Dr. Roger Quarles has been hired as Chief Deputy Superintendent of the Idaho State Department of Education.
As Chief Deputy, Quarles will oversee, supervise and support all educational programs at the Department including federal programs, assessment, school improvement and content areas.
“Through his work in the Caldwell School District and at Boise State, Roger Quarles has demonstrated he is a leader of reform and innovation in Idaho with a proven track record of success. I am pleased he now is bringing his expertise and passion for Idaho students to the State Department of Education. I know Roger will be a valuable asset to our team as we work to make sure every child, no matter where they live, graduates from high school and goes on to postsecondary education without the need for remediation,” Superintendent Luna said.
Nick Smith previously served as the Department’s Chief Deputy. He left the Department in July to take a position as a principal in the Boise School District.
Quarles brings 19 years of experience in education to the State Department of Education. He has served as a teacher, a principal, assistant superintendent and district superintendent.
Most recently, Quarles served as an assistant professor in the Department of Curriculum, Instruction and Foundational Studies at Boise State University and Co-Director of the successful Idaho Leads Project, housed at Boise State University. The Idaho Leads Project, funded by the J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Foundation, is a professional development team focused on strengthening leadership capacity in Idaho’s K-12 schools. Currently, the Idaho Leads Project is serving 63 districts and charter schools statewide.
Prior to joining Boise State, Quarles led the Caldwell School District where he showed significant progress in turning around low-performing schools and retaining high-quality teachers.
“I believe this is one of the most exciting times to be involved in education. I support Superintendent Luna’s vision to create a customer-driven education system that meets the needs of every student, so I am eager to join him and his team at the state level and work toward achieving these goals,” Quarles said.
Quarles holds a Ph.D. in educational leadership from the University of Idaho, where he also earned an Ed.S. in educational leadership and an M.Ed. in educational administration.
Quarles will start his new position as Chief Deputy at the State Department of Education on August 19.
As Chief Deputy, Quarles will oversee, supervise and support all educational programs at the Department including federal programs, assessment, school improvement and content areas.
“Through his work in the Caldwell School District and at Boise State, Roger Quarles has demonstrated he is a leader of reform and innovation in Idaho with a proven track record of success. I am pleased he now is bringing his expertise and passion for Idaho students to the State Department of Education. I know Roger will be a valuable asset to our team as we work to make sure every child, no matter where they live, graduates from high school and goes on to postsecondary education without the need for remediation,” Superintendent Luna said.
Nick Smith previously served as the Department’s Chief Deputy. He left the Department in July to take a position as a principal in the Boise School District.
Quarles brings 19 years of experience in education to the State Department of Education. He has served as a teacher, a principal, assistant superintendent and district superintendent.
Most recently, Quarles served as an assistant professor in the Department of Curriculum, Instruction and Foundational Studies at Boise State University and Co-Director of the successful Idaho Leads Project, housed at Boise State University. The Idaho Leads Project, funded by the J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Foundation, is a professional development team focused on strengthening leadership capacity in Idaho’s K-12 schools. Currently, the Idaho Leads Project is serving 63 districts and charter schools statewide.
Prior to joining Boise State, Quarles led the Caldwell School District where he showed significant progress in turning around low-performing schools and retaining high-quality teachers.
“I believe this is one of the most exciting times to be involved in education. I support Superintendent Luna’s vision to create a customer-driven education system that meets the needs of every student, so I am eager to join him and his team at the state level and work toward achieving these goals,” Quarles said.
Quarles holds a Ph.D. in educational leadership from the University of Idaho, where he also earned an Ed.S. in educational leadership and an M.Ed. in educational administration.
Quarles will start his new position as Chief Deputy at the State Department of Education on August 19.
Saturday, July 27, 2013
ISAS 2013 Academy 2: Day 7
After a late night practicing their presentations the students were up bright and early to go through another round of practice. The students worked till they were ready and the presentations sounded great.
The students arrived at the Yanke Center around ten in the morning and set up their poster presentations. They then received guests and family to talk about the mission to Mars they had planned. Students also reunited with family members after their week long absence from home.
The presentation began with a welcome from program director Peter Kavouras and was followed by a buffet. The audience received a preview of the students' time at the Academy through a video and slideshow during their meal.
Next the teams introduced themselves along with their job titles and presented their mission which was done in four parts with each team presenting their portion of the mission. Each presenter was eloquent and thorough with their short speech and communicated to the audience well.
After the presentations a few special guests including Dr. Amy Moll, Tony Leavitt, and Corey Morasch stood and talked about the students' experiences and vision of the program. They communicated to the audience the positive impact the Idaho Science and Aerospace Scholars Program has on the students and their desire to see it continue.
Audra Phelps was then introduced and he in turn introduced each team's teacher-mentor. After making a few remarks on the performance of their team each mentor presented their team members with certificates of achievement. After their team received their certificates one team member on behalf of their team was asked to talk about their experience at the Academy. This may have been the most heartwarming and convincing part of the banquet, for you saw their sincere appreciation for the program.
The time to say farewell came too quickly. Students and mentors alike felt that the time they had spent together made it hard to part but we will see these students again in the near future.
Thank you so much for following these students during their time at the first Idaho Science and Aerospace Scholars Academy. You can find photos, videos and other media of their time spent at the academy on the Facebook and Twitter pages. And it was my pleasure to bring their story to you all week.
--Camille
The students arrived at the Yanke Center around ten in the morning and set up their poster presentations. They then received guests and family to talk about the mission to Mars they had planned. Students also reunited with family members after their week long absence from home.
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| Students present their design mission to their family members. |
The presentation began with a welcome from program director Peter Kavouras and was followed by a buffet. The audience received a preview of the students' time at the Academy through a video and slideshow during their meal.
Next the teams introduced themselves along with their job titles and presented their mission which was done in four parts with each team presenting their portion of the mission. Each presenter was eloquent and thorough with their short speech and communicated to the audience well.
 |
| Students present their mission design to the banquet hall. |
After the presentations a few special guests including Dr. Amy Moll, Tony Leavitt, and Corey Morasch stood and talked about the students' experiences and vision of the program. They communicated to the audience the positive impact the Idaho Science and Aerospace Scholars Program has on the students and their desire to see it continue.
Audra Phelps was then introduced and he in turn introduced each team's teacher-mentor. After making a few remarks on the performance of their team each mentor presented their team members with certificates of achievement. After their team received their certificates one team member on behalf of their team was asked to talk about their experience at the Academy. This may have been the most heartwarming and convincing part of the banquet, for you saw their sincere appreciation for the program.
 |
| Teams receive the certificate of achievement. |
The time to say farewell came too quickly. Students and mentors alike felt that the time they had spent together made it hard to part but we will see these students again in the near future.
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| Students say goodbye as they part ways. |
--Camille
Friday, July 26, 2013
ISAS 2013 Academy 2: Day 6
The students' day began with a presentation from the Boise State University Microgravity Team. This team submitted a research proposal to NASA and after it was accepted they put it in over 1200 hours each to make the project ready for a flight in the 'Weightless Wonder', which is a C-9 aircraft that as it flies in parabolic curves simulates weightlessness for thirty seconds at a time. This team's research was based on preserving bone calcium and preventing osteoporosis.
Soon afterwards students had the opportunity to participate in a teleconference with Dan Isla who is a Boise State University graduate and Systems Engineer at NASA Jet Propulsion Lab. Mr. Isla worked on the Assembly Test and Launch Operations Team (ATLO) for the Mars Rover Curiosity and talked about the rover's activities on the planet and its instrumentation. Students posed the questions, "Who drives the rover?" And, "What is the craziest thing scientist have asked you to do with the rover?" Also, "Why does the rover go to sleep instead of working all day and all night?"
The students had the opportunity to participate in workshops that provided a hands on approach to different career fields including wind power, chemistry, biology, cryptology, and robotics. The students worked with college students, graduate students and professors to complete different experiments in these areas of study.
These students are working hard to prepare for the banquet on Saturday where they will present their final presentation. They have accomplished much this past week at the academy and they are excited to share what they have learned with you. We hope to see you tomorrow!
Don't forget to check out the Facebook and Twitter pages for more videos and ISAS content.
--Camille
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| The Boise State University team shares their experience with the students. |
Soon afterwards students had the opportunity to participate in a teleconference with Dan Isla who is a Boise State University graduate and Systems Engineer at NASA Jet Propulsion Lab. Mr. Isla worked on the Assembly Test and Launch Operations Team (ATLO) for the Mars Rover Curiosity and talked about the rover's activities on the planet and its instrumentation. Students posed the questions, "Who drives the rover?" And, "What is the craziest thing scientist have asked you to do with the rover?" Also, "Why does the rover go to sleep instead of working all day and all night?"
 |
| Students participate in a teleconference with Dan Isla. |
The students had the opportunity to participate in workshops that provided a hands on approach to different career fields including wind power, chemistry, biology, cryptology, and robotics. The students worked with college students, graduate students and professors to complete different experiments in these areas of study.
 |
| A student works on a project in the workshop. |
These students are working hard to prepare for the banquet on Saturday where they will present their final presentation. They have accomplished much this past week at the academy and they are excited to share what they have learned with you. We hope to see you tomorrow!
Don't forget to check out the Facebook and Twitter pages for more videos and ISAS content.
--Camille
Thursday, July 25, 2013
ISAS 2013 Academy 2: Day 5
The students' day began with a tour of the Micron facilities where they not only learned about the process used to create memory products using silicon wafers but they were also able to view different aspects of the research and development with these wafers. Students learned that the Boise site is primarily focused on research and development, in comparison to a focus on manufacturing.
Students were able to view the clean room where the wafers are created with the use of an Automated Materials Handling System (AMHS). This automated system bypasses the need for workers to be in direct contact with wafers. Pods take the wafers to and from different tools that are used in the manufacturing process.
Students were also allowed to tour the Surface Analysis Lab where tests are done on the wafers to assist research. The Analytical Chemstry Lab is where students watched acid dissolve a top layer off a wafer called Borophosphosilicate glass. This process is used to find exactly what is on the glass. And the Transmission Electron Microscope allowed students to see what an atom looked like.
After Micron the students were able to participate in a rocket launch put on by Corey Morasch and J.C. Worthen. Out in a field one of the students set off the launch and it was retrieved by another student. It was a pretty exciting launch once it shot off it went turned in the wind and at the last second its chute opened. This was definitely a highlight of the day.
The students returned to the Boise State University campus to work on mission planning. With a lot of new information acquired from NASA Ames, the students had a lot to think about and discuss.
The final presentation of the day was from former astronaut Wendy Lawrence who spoke to the students on the physiological concerns that exist when we go out into space. Concerns such as radiation but also fluid shifts that can affect eye vision and the psychological factors of spending time in space away from home for an extended period.
You may be wondering if these kids have any fun time scheduled? Yes! Tonight was a special night in the Student Union Building where they had some recreation time including bowling, ping pong and pool. They appreciate the break as tomorrow will be another busy day at the Academy.
Thank you for reading and as always be sure to check out the Facebook and Twitter pages for more photos and frequent updates during the day. And we hope to see you at the banquet on Saturday where the students are sure to be presenting an engaging and impressive final presentation. #ISAS
--Camille
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| Micron Technologies |
Students were able to view the clean room where the wafers are created with the use of an Automated Materials Handling System (AMHS). This automated system bypasses the need for workers to be in direct contact with wafers. Pods take the wafers to and from different tools that are used in the manufacturing process.
Students were also allowed to tour the Surface Analysis Lab where tests are done on the wafers to assist research. The Analytical Chemstry Lab is where students watched acid dissolve a top layer off a wafer called Borophosphosilicate glass. This process is used to find exactly what is on the glass. And the Transmission Electron Microscope allowed students to see what an atom looked like.
After Micron the students were able to participate in a rocket launch put on by Corey Morasch and J.C. Worthen. Out in a field one of the students set off the launch and it was retrieved by another student. It was a pretty exciting launch once it shot off it went turned in the wind and at the last second its chute opened. This was definitely a highlight of the day.
 |
| A student recovers the rocket. |
The students returned to the Boise State University campus to work on mission planning. With a lot of new information acquired from NASA Ames, the students had a lot to think about and discuss.
 |
| Students continue to develop their mission design. |
The final presentation of the day was from former astronaut Wendy Lawrence who spoke to the students on the physiological concerns that exist when we go out into space. Concerns such as radiation but also fluid shifts that can affect eye vision and the psychological factors of spending time in space away from home for an extended period.
 |
| Students heard a presentation from Wendy Lawerence. |
You may be wondering if these kids have any fun time scheduled? Yes! Tonight was a special night in the Student Union Building where they had some recreation time including bowling, ping pong and pool. They appreciate the break as tomorrow will be another busy day at the Academy.
Thank you for reading and as always be sure to check out the Facebook and Twitter pages for more photos and frequent updates during the day. And we hope to see you at the banquet on Saturday where the students are sure to be presenting an engaging and impressive final presentation. #ISAS
--Camille
ISAS 2013 Academy 2: Day 4
This morning the students were wide awake and ready to start their second day at the NASA Ames Research Center. After such an exciting time yesterday they knew to expect an engaging and informing time through the presentations and tours that would be given and NASA did not disappoint those expectations.
The students had the opportunity to hear from preeminent scientist Chris McKay who brought a presentation about finding life on Mars. He spoke on the different instruments used to look for organics, reasons why it might be hard to find traces of organic material on Mars and the moral implications if we do find some on the red planet. Mr. McKay shared a lot of information with the students and received a nice round of applause at the conclusion.
Students went to the Arc Jet where different materials are tested with intense heat. Led by Ernie Fretter and John Balboni they were able to see and hear about the different materials that are tested and the process of the testing. The arc jet is designed to simulate the conditions for spacecraft during re-entry of the Earth's atmosphere. Heat shields are one example of what is tested at this facility.
The students also visited the Psychophysiological Lab and were able to meet Pat Cowings who developed the Autogenic Feedback Training Exercise. This exercise is used to train astronauts to deal with the stresses accompanied by living and working in space on their bodies and on their minds. They are trained in their reactions to different situations they encounter to purposefully lower their heart rate, bring their emotions under control and other tasks in order to perform their duties.
Soon after students were glad to see Pascal Lee once again as he delivered a presentation on research being completed at Devon Island. Devon Island is the largest uninhabited island in the world that is much like the Mars surface and therefore a perfect place to test rovers in a martian-like terrain. Mr. Lee also talked about the specifics of planning a Mars mission such as layout of the colony, space suit design, rovers, and crew selection.
Students met with Brian Day once again who gave a very intriguing presentation on lunar exploration. He talked about various moon exploration missions such as the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) and the Lunar Crater Observation and Sensing Satellite (LCROSS). Both of these spacecrafts were looking for more evidence of water on the moon based on theories that the poles of the moon contain frozen water. Students asked questions such as, "How far are areas of permafrost spread out over the moon?" And, "Does NASA have any plans for a lunar base?"
They also paid a visit to the Fluid Dynamics Lab and were able to see the "Life Saver" wind tunnel. They participated in an experiment that involved the friction on the walls of the wind tunnel created by the flowing air. Around the walls the air slows down to a point where the velocity is zero but as you move away from the wall toward the air stream the velocity gradually increases. This allowed the students to listen to a change of pitch in the airflow as they moved a tube near and away from the wall.
Students visited the Crew-Vehicle Systems Research Facility for a tour led by David Chin. They were able to look at a full 747 simulator and a few students had the opportunity to fly in the simulation as well. They learned about Ed Link who made an early version of a simulator called the Link Flight Trainer. There was also a visit to a radar room for air traffic controllers where research is done to see if computers can help with the increasing demands air traffic controllers face as the number of airplane flights rise.
The students left excited about what they had witnessed these past two days and thinking and talking about the opportunities they would have to join these scientists and engineers in just a few years. After this trip to NASA Ames students will have their sights set high for the future. We want to thank Tony Leavitt and all of the other professionals at NASA Ames Research Center who helped make this trip one of the most exciting and engaging experiences the students have had at the Academy. Don't forget to check out the Facebook and Twitter pages for more updates during the day. And we hope to see you at the banquet for the final presentation on Saturday. #ISAS
--Camille
The students had the opportunity to hear from preeminent scientist Chris McKay who brought a presentation about finding life on Mars. He spoke on the different instruments used to look for organics, reasons why it might be hard to find traces of organic material on Mars and the moral implications if we do find some on the red planet. Mr. McKay shared a lot of information with the students and received a nice round of applause at the conclusion.
 |
| Chris McKay speaks to students during a presentation. |
Students went to the Arc Jet where different materials are tested with intense heat. Led by Ernie Fretter and John Balboni they were able to see and hear about the different materials that are tested and the process of the testing. The arc jet is designed to simulate the conditions for spacecraft during re-entry of the Earth's atmosphere. Heat shields are one example of what is tested at this facility.
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| ISAS students visit the Arc Jet Facility. |
The students also visited the Psychophysiological Lab and were able to meet Pat Cowings who developed the Autogenic Feedback Training Exercise. This exercise is used to train astronauts to deal with the stresses accompanied by living and working in space on their bodies and on their minds. They are trained in their reactions to different situations they encounter to purposefully lower their heart rate, bring their emotions under control and other tasks in order to perform their duties.
 |
| ISAS students visit the Psychophysiological Lab. |
Soon after students were glad to see Pascal Lee once again as he delivered a presentation on research being completed at Devon Island. Devon Island is the largest uninhabited island in the world that is much like the Mars surface and therefore a perfect place to test rovers in a martian-like terrain. Mr. Lee also talked about the specifics of planning a Mars mission such as layout of the colony, space suit design, rovers, and crew selection.
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| Pascal Lee revisits ISAS students in a talk about Devon Island. |
Students met with Brian Day once again who gave a very intriguing presentation on lunar exploration. He talked about various moon exploration missions such as the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) and the Lunar Crater Observation and Sensing Satellite (LCROSS). Both of these spacecrafts were looking for more evidence of water on the moon based on theories that the poles of the moon contain frozen water. Students asked questions such as, "How far are areas of permafrost spread out over the moon?" And, "Does NASA have any plans for a lunar base?"
 |
| Brian Day revisits ISAS students in a presentation about lunar missions. |
They also paid a visit to the Fluid Dynamics Lab and were able to see the "Life Saver" wind tunnel. They participated in an experiment that involved the friction on the walls of the wind tunnel created by the flowing air. Around the walls the air slows down to a point where the velocity is zero but as you move away from the wall toward the air stream the velocity gradually increases. This allowed the students to listen to a change of pitch in the airflow as they moved a tube near and away from the wall.
 |
| ISAS students participate in a wind tunnel experiment. |
Students visited the Crew-Vehicle Systems Research Facility for a tour led by David Chin. They were able to look at a full 747 simulator and a few students had the opportunity to fly in the simulation as well. They learned about Ed Link who made an early version of a simulator called the Link Flight Trainer. There was also a visit to a radar room for air traffic controllers where research is done to see if computers can help with the increasing demands air traffic controllers face as the number of airplane flights rise.
 |
| ISAS students get to sit in a full 747 flight simulator. |
The students left excited about what they had witnessed these past two days and thinking and talking about the opportunities they would have to join these scientists and engineers in just a few years. After this trip to NASA Ames students will have their sights set high for the future. We want to thank Tony Leavitt and all of the other professionals at NASA Ames Research Center who helped make this trip one of the most exciting and engaging experiences the students have had at the Academy. Don't forget to check out the Facebook and Twitter pages for more updates during the day. And we hope to see you at the banquet for the final presentation on Saturday. #ISAS
--Camille
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
ISAS 2013 Academy 2: Day 3
The ISAS students got out of bed very early this morning to catch an 8 am flight to San Jose, California. From there they traveled to the location of the NASA Ames Research Center. This is where the students will be able to tour many of the testing facilities and scientific labs that have played a large role in bringing us the technology and scientific exploration known to us today. This is also one of the best opportunity in the academy to gain information in regards to their mission planning with many chances to speak with NASA professionals.
Students were able to tour the 20g centrifuge with Daniel Morgan. This facility provides research on the affects of increased gravity forces on humans and their ability to function under those conditions.
The Vertical Motion Simulator has the benefit of testing many different flight scenarios, such as Space Shuttles, Fighter Jets, Moon Landers and 747s. Guided by Lisa Grant the students learned that this particular simulator not only gave pilots and astronauts all of the buttons and view screens of the actual vehicle, but it also simulated vehicle movement and depth perception. This simulator is the only one in the world of its kind.
Students heard from Dr. Lynn Rothschild who provided a great presentation on life living in extreme conditions. They learned that different factors affect the chances of life flourishing such as temperature, pH levels, salinity, radiation and more.
NASA Ames Research Center is home to the 80 by 120 wind tunnel, the largest wind tunnel in the world. Bill Warmbrodt presented the students with a very fascinating presentation on this scientific apparatus. Students appreciated his approach of engaging them with questions and amusing stories. This wind tunnel uses the amount of electricity that it would take to power two cities of 225,000 people and can produce wind at 115 miles per hour. It uses hydro-electricity that comes from dams in Big Creek of Nevada and the Snake River of Idaho.
The final event of the day was a great time for the teams to take advantage of the fact they were on the site of a NASA center walking among elite scientists, engineers and other professionals. A panel of experts including Pascal Lee, Brian Day, Nathalie Cabrol and Jake Forsberg brought a seventy minute question and answer session to the students. Questions were asked such as, "What are the best ways to protect against radiation?" And, "What is an effective way to dispose of trash during a stay on Mars?" To find out about the answers to these questions and to find out what decisions the teams made on the specific details of their missions, be sure to join us for the banquet on Saturday where the teams will present their final reports.
Not only are these students bright they are pretty enthusiastic. When the final call came for questions six or seven hands popped up and their questions were exceptionally strong and in depth. Well done students!
Please take some time to visit the ISAS Facebook and Twitter page for more pictures and updates. #ISAS
--Camille
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| NASA Ames Research Center |
Students were able to tour the 20g centrifuge with Daniel Morgan. This facility provides research on the affects of increased gravity forces on humans and their ability to function under those conditions.
 |
| Students received the chance to sit in the centrifuge. |
The Vertical Motion Simulator has the benefit of testing many different flight scenarios, such as Space Shuttles, Fighter Jets, Moon Landers and 747s. Guided by Lisa Grant the students learned that this particular simulator not only gave pilots and astronauts all of the buttons and view screens of the actual vehicle, but it also simulated vehicle movement and depth perception. This simulator is the only one in the world of its kind.
 |
| Students view and step inside a Vertical Motion Simulator. |
Students heard from Dr. Lynn Rothschild who provided a great presentation on life living in extreme conditions. They learned that different factors affect the chances of life flourishing such as temperature, pH levels, salinity, radiation and more.
 |
| Dr. Rothschild speaks with the students. |
NASA Ames Research Center is home to the 80 by 120 wind tunnel, the largest wind tunnel in the world. Bill Warmbrodt presented the students with a very fascinating presentation on this scientific apparatus. Students appreciated his approach of engaging them with questions and amusing stories. This wind tunnel uses the amount of electricity that it would take to power two cities of 225,000 people and can produce wind at 115 miles per hour. It uses hydro-electricity that comes from dams in Big Creek of Nevada and the Snake River of Idaho.
 |
| Students visit the largest wind tunnel in the world. |
The final event of the day was a great time for the teams to take advantage of the fact they were on the site of a NASA center walking among elite scientists, engineers and other professionals. A panel of experts including Pascal Lee, Brian Day, Nathalie Cabrol and Jake Forsberg brought a seventy minute question and answer session to the students. Questions were asked such as, "What are the best ways to protect against radiation?" And, "What is an effective way to dispose of trash during a stay on Mars?" To find out about the answers to these questions and to find out what decisions the teams made on the specific details of their missions, be sure to join us for the banquet on Saturday where the teams will present their final reports.
 |
| Brian Day talks with a student. |
Please take some time to visit the ISAS Facebook and Twitter page for more pictures and updates. #ISAS
--Camille
Monday, July 22, 2013
ISAS 2013 Academy 2: Day 2
Students have begun putting together the specific aspects of their mission early the second day. Jason Budinoff of the NASA Goddard Spaceflight Center came in with mission guidelines or parameters. The teams were given the Mars landing site, mission timeline and approximate number of crew. They were also given specific objectives to be completed during the mission such as materials from the planet of the Mars needed to be brought back to Earth to study. Mr. Budinoff was also able to draw out of the teams statements specifying missing pieces of information they may have needed from other teams to continue with their portion of the planning. And also what they in turn, as a team, were planning to contribute to the mission. This leads to the mission planning becoming a collaborative effort in which the mission develops as the teams realize how changes in the logistics and itinerary overlap and affect each team.
After three hours of mission planning the students were taken on a tour of Boise State University's College of Engineering. They visited different labs to learn about different instruments and research projects that are on campus. In the Systems Integration Lab they found out about all things Electrical Engineering, including a six legged robot that could walk and capture video. They also visited the Magnetic Shape Alloy Lab where they learned a little bit about changing atomic structures with energy such as heat. The students were able to learn about Micro Propulsion which, while the thrust would not be able to lift anything here on earth, in space these little thrusters would be easily able to orient spacecraft to where they needed to be. Students were also able to visit the New Product Development Lab, see the products of their 3D printing and learn about how those Boise State University students are doing business for real clients and gaining valuable experience. Students also had the opportunity to ride a Segway in the courtyard.
After lunch the students were greeted by Dr. Amy Moll, Dean of the College of Engineering, who talked about degree programs and student life at Boise State University. They also met service-dog-in-training Jelly who definitely made the students smile a few times during the presentation. Students had a lot of questions and enjoyed the session.
Next were the rockets. Students entered the room and were surprised to see a seventeen foot tall rocket standing in the corner. Corey Morasch and J.C. Worthen of the Tripoli Idaho Rocketry club brought in a few rockets and explained the launch stages of the rockets. Some of these high powered rockets can fly up to 38,000 feet. Students seemed to really enjoy this presentation and will get an up close look at the rocket launch on Thursday.
Dr. Henry Charlier came in and introduced the topic of poster presentations to the students. They learned about the importance of outlining their presentation, minimizing text and using pictures, as well as avoiding distracting backgrounds. The students were encouraged to draw their audience in with their own enthusiasm for their project. Posters will be a part of the final presentation on Saturday and we hope to see you there.
The final event of the day was a three hour session on robotics with Woody Sobey and Rici Morrill of the Discovery Center of Idaho. The students needed to build and program their robots. Their objectives were to get it to move, run a certain length and make a square. Then students added LED lights and programmed the robot to blink these lights. Next the robot needed to make a sound and then the sounds were programmed into a song. The songs that were played varied from Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, Ode to Joy, Fera Jaka and more. The next challenge was to add a light sensor and to program in a thermin which would allow a tone to vary based on how much light was on the sensor. And finally the different teams challenged each other's robots in a sumo match.
These ISAS students are working very hard and have accomplished much this second day of the academy. They are incredible students who enjoy working together and learning new things. Tomorrow will be another jammed packed day as we will be taking an early flight to visit the NASA Ames Research Center in California. Be sure to check out the Facebook and Twitter pages for more photos and updates. #ISAS
--Camille
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| Students plan a mission to Mars through collaboration. |
After three hours of mission planning the students were taken on a tour of Boise State University's College of Engineering. They visited different labs to learn about different instruments and research projects that are on campus. In the Systems Integration Lab they found out about all things Electrical Engineering, including a six legged robot that could walk and capture video. They also visited the Magnetic Shape Alloy Lab where they learned a little bit about changing atomic structures with energy such as heat. The students were able to learn about Micro Propulsion which, while the thrust would not be able to lift anything here on earth, in space these little thrusters would be easily able to orient spacecraft to where they needed to be. Students were also able to visit the New Product Development Lab, see the products of their 3D printing and learn about how those Boise State University students are doing business for real clients and gaining valuable experience. Students also had the opportunity to ride a Segway in the courtyard.
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| Students ride the segway in the courtyard. |
After lunch the students were greeted by Dr. Amy Moll, Dean of the College of Engineering, who talked about degree programs and student life at Boise State University. They also met service-dog-in-training Jelly who definitely made the students smile a few times during the presentation. Students had a lot of questions and enjoyed the session.
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| Dr. Amy Moll talks with students. |
Next were the rockets. Students entered the room and were surprised to see a seventeen foot tall rocket standing in the corner. Corey Morasch and J.C. Worthen of the Tripoli Idaho Rocketry club brought in a few rockets and explained the launch stages of the rockets. Some of these high powered rockets can fly up to 38,000 feet. Students seemed to really enjoy this presentation and will get an up close look at the rocket launch on Thursday.
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| Corey Morasch and J.C. Worthen provided an engaging presentation on rockets. |
Dr. Henry Charlier came in and introduced the topic of poster presentations to the students. They learned about the importance of outlining their presentation, minimizing text and using pictures, as well as avoiding distracting backgrounds. The students were encouraged to draw their audience in with their own enthusiasm for their project. Posters will be a part of the final presentation on Saturday and we hope to see you there.
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| Dr. Henry Charlier give students tips on how to create an engaging poster presentation. |
The final event of the day was a three hour session on robotics with Woody Sobey and Rici Morrill of the Discovery Center of Idaho. The students needed to build and program their robots. Their objectives were to get it to move, run a certain length and make a square. Then students added LED lights and programmed the robot to blink these lights. Next the robot needed to make a sound and then the sounds were programmed into a song. The songs that were played varied from Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, Ode to Joy, Fera Jaka and more. The next challenge was to add a light sensor and to program in a thermin which would allow a tone to vary based on how much light was on the sensor. And finally the different teams challenged each other's robots in a sumo match.
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| Students had a great time building and programming their robots. |
These ISAS students are working very hard and have accomplished much this second day of the academy. They are incredible students who enjoy working together and learning new things. Tomorrow will be another jammed packed day as we will be taking an early flight to visit the NASA Ames Research Center in California. Be sure to check out the Facebook and Twitter pages for more photos and updates. #ISAS
--Camille
Sunday, July 21, 2013
ISAS 2013 Academy 2: Day 1
Hello and welcome to family members, friends and others who are following the activities of the Idaho Science and Aerospace Scholars.
My name is Camille Eddy and I will be writing the blogs, posting media updates and photographing the events that happen at the Academy as well as the many students, professionals and other individuals who make up this program. I am a former ISAS Academy participant myself (ISAS 2012) and in the fall I will be attending Boise State University majoring in Mechanical Engineering. I hope to give you more than just a glimpse of how much fun these students are having every day at the Academy. You can check out many more photos on the ISAS Facebook Page and receive frequent updates as they are happening on the ISAS Twitter page.
The Idaho Science and Aerospace Scholars Summer Academy was formed in 2010 based off similar programs in both Texas and Virginia. It is a competitive academy for high school juniors where students apply for the program prior to their second semester of their junior year. After completing a semester of course work, the top students are chosen to join the week long program. This week they will help create a mission to Mars, tour NASA Ames Research Center in San Jose, California, and explore the potentials of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) careers.
Around eleven o'clock today students began arriving and checking in to Kieser Hall. After check-in the students had time to meet each other and group into their teams. Then the time finally came for the students to make the short walk to the Discovery Center of Idaho where the fun began. They had the chance to look around the Discovery Center and experience the different exhibits it had to offer.
The students were then brought to a classroom in the Center where they would construct a planetary lander. This lander needed to deliver a payload safely to the ground. In this case the payload was an egg. The students were given a limited amount of materials to work with and had to come up with a design themselves. This then led to the launching of the planetary landers from fifty feet in the air. Each team was able to successfully launch a lander without breaking an egg. Special thanks to Carl Baker of Quality Electric and Corey Morasch of Micron for making this launch possible.
My name is Camille Eddy and I will be writing the blogs, posting media updates and photographing the events that happen at the Academy as well as the many students, professionals and other individuals who make up this program. I am a former ISAS Academy participant myself (ISAS 2012) and in the fall I will be attending Boise State University majoring in Mechanical Engineering. I hope to give you more than just a glimpse of how much fun these students are having every day at the Academy. You can check out many more photos on the ISAS Facebook Page and receive frequent updates as they are happening on the ISAS Twitter page.
The Idaho Science and Aerospace Scholars Summer Academy was formed in 2010 based off similar programs in both Texas and Virginia. It is a competitive academy for high school juniors where students apply for the program prior to their second semester of their junior year. After completing a semester of course work, the top students are chosen to join the week long program. This week they will help create a mission to Mars, tour NASA Ames Research Center in San Jose, California, and explore the potentials of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) careers.
Around eleven o'clock today students began arriving and checking in to Kieser Hall. After check-in the students had time to meet each other and group into their teams. Then the time finally came for the students to make the short walk to the Discovery Center of Idaho where the fun began. They had the chance to look around the Discovery Center and experience the different exhibits it had to offer.
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| Students participate in the hands on activities at the Discovery Center of Idaho |
The students were then brought to a classroom in the Center where they would construct a planetary lander. This lander needed to deliver a payload safely to the ground. In this case the payload was an egg. The students were given a limited amount of materials to work with and had to come up with a design themselves. This then led to the launching of the planetary landers from fifty feet in the air. Each team was able to successfully launch a lander without breaking an egg. Special thanks to Carl Baker of Quality Electric and Corey Morasch of Micron for making this launch possible.
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| Students proudly present their finished landers to the rest of the group. |
A little bit later it was time to introduce each other to the group. Students were given a random name tag and then had to find that person to learn a few things about them to say before the group. The introduction concluded with the student's hometown being pinned on the board.
Then they continued with the introduction of team names, patches and white pages. There are four teams, each focusing on a specific aspect of the mission including Mission Integration, Getting There and Back, Living There and Working There. Each white page for the teams needed to detail the parameters in which the teams will be working on in their specific groups.
Soon after this the students participated in the Ping Pong Triathlon facilitated by Woody Sobey of the Discovery Center of Idaho. Each team was given materials to construct a cantilever, a free standing structure the extended up and away from a base and a ping pong at the end. They also constructed a catapult that sent the ping pong into the air and a ping pong rocket that would be propelled by a stomp launcher.
As you can see ISAS students are launched into rigorous activities right away. And today was a great example of fantastic students easily interacting with each other and engaging enthusiastically with the activities of the academy. Tomorrow they will build on the team relationships they have begun to form today and build a better awareness of the mission they will be developing.
--Camille
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| Students introduced each other to the rest of the group. |
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| A map of Idaho showing where the students come from. |
Then they continued with the introduction of team names, patches and white pages. There are four teams, each focusing on a specific aspect of the mission including Mission Integration, Getting There and Back, Living There and Working There. Each white page for the teams needed to detail the parameters in which the teams will be working on in their specific groups.
Soon after this the students participated in the Ping Pong Triathlon facilitated by Woody Sobey of the Discovery Center of Idaho. Each team was given materials to construct a cantilever, a free standing structure the extended up and away from a base and a ping pong at the end. They also constructed a catapult that sent the ping pong into the air and a ping pong rocket that would be propelled by a stomp launcher.
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| Students work on the Ping Pong Triathlon Challenge. |
As you can see ISAS students are launched into rigorous activities right away. And today was a great example of fantastic students easily interacting with each other and engaging enthusiastically with the activities of the academy. Tomorrow they will build on the team relationships they have begun to form today and build a better awareness of the mission they will be developing.
--Camille
Saturday, July 13, 2013
ISAS 2013 Academy 1: Day 7
After a late night practicing their presentations the students were up bright and early to go through another round of practice. The students worked till they were ready and the presentations sounded great.
The students arrived at the Yanke Center around ten in the morning and set up their poster presentations. They then received guests and family to talk about the mission to Mars they had planned. Students also reunited with family members after their week long absence from home.
The presentation began with a welcome from program director Peter Kavouras and was followed by a buffet. The audience received a preview of the students' time at the Academy through a video and slideshow during their meal.
Next the teams introduced themselves along with their job titles and presented their mission which was done in four parts with each team presenting their portion of the mission. Each presenter was eloquent and thorough with their short speech and communicated to the audience well.
After the presentations a few special guests including Dr. Tony Roark, Art Johnson, and Corey Morasch stood and talked about the students' experiences and vision of the program. They communicated to the audience the positive impact the Idaho Science and Aerospace Scholars Program has on the students and their desire to see it continue.
Ralph Peterson was then introduced and he in turn introduced each team's teacher-mentor. After making a few remarks on the performance of their team each mentor presented their team members with certificates of achievement. After their team received their certificates one team member on behalf of their team was asked to talk about their experience at the Academy. This may have been the most heartwarming and convincing part of the banquet, for you saw their sincere appreciation for the program.
The time to say farewell came too quickly. Students and mentors alike felt that the time they had spent together made it hard to part but we will see these students again in the near future.
Thank you so much for following these students during their time at the first Idaho Science and Aerospace Scholars Academy. You can find photos, videos and other media of their time spent at the academy on the Facebook and Twitter pages. And it was my pleasure to bring their story to you all week.
--Camille
The students arrived at the Yanke Center around ten in the morning and set up their poster presentations. They then received guests and family to talk about the mission to Mars they had planned. Students also reunited with family members after their week long absence from home.
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| ISAS scholars explain to guests their plans for a mission to Mars. |
The presentation began with a welcome from program director Peter Kavouras and was followed by a buffet. The audience received a preview of the students' time at the Academy through a video and slideshow during their meal.
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| Peter Kavouras addresses a full room of guests and student family members |
Next the teams introduced themselves along with their job titles and presented their mission which was done in four parts with each team presenting their portion of the mission. Each presenter was eloquent and thorough with their short speech and communicated to the audience well.
After the presentations a few special guests including Dr. Tony Roark, Art Johnson, and Corey Morasch stood and talked about the students' experiences and vision of the program. They communicated to the audience the positive impact the Idaho Science and Aerospace Scholars Program has on the students and their desire to see it continue.
Ralph Peterson was then introduced and he in turn introduced each team's teacher-mentor. After making a few remarks on the performance of their team each mentor presented their team members with certificates of achievement. After their team received their certificates one team member on behalf of their team was asked to talk about their experience at the Academy. This may have been the most heartwarming and convincing part of the banquet, for you saw their sincere appreciation for the program.
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| Scholars received a certificate of achievement for the program/ |
The time to say farewell came too quickly. Students and mentors alike felt that the time they had spent together made it hard to part but we will see these students again in the near future.
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| ISAS scholars will take away many memories and new friendships. |
Thank you so much for following these students during their time at the first Idaho Science and Aerospace Scholars Academy. You can find photos, videos and other media of their time spent at the academy on the Facebook and Twitter pages. And it was my pleasure to bring their story to you all week.
--Camille
ISAS 2013 Academy 1: Day 6
The students' day began with a presentation from the Boise State University Microgravity Team. This team submitted a research proposal to NASA and after it was accepted they put it in over 1200 hours each to make the project ready for a flight in the 'Weightless Wonder', which is a C-9 aircraft that as it flies in parabolic curves simulates weightlessness for thirty seconds at a time. This team's research was based on preserving bone calcium and preventing osteoporosis.
Next Ralph Peterson gave a presentation on the program called Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) which consists of an infrared telescope mounted in a plane that flies at 38,000 feet. This allows the infrared light from stars to be seen and that data used for research. The program allows for teams of educators to join the flight and Mr. Peterson spoke of his experience.
Soon afterwards students had the opportunity to participate in a videocon with Dan Isla who is a Boise State University graduate and Systems Engineer at NASA Jet Propulsion Lab. Mr. Isla worked on the Assembly Test and Launch Operations Team (ATLO) for the Mars Rover Curiosity and talked about the rover's activities on the planet and its instrumentation. Students posed the questions, "What is the optimal temperature for the rover to keep working?" And, "Can we use nuclear propulsion to provide electricity at the same time?" Also, "How do you safegaurd the electronics from the effects of radiation?" If you would like to know the answers to these questions yourselves be sure to come down to the banquet on Saturday and ask the students.
The students had the opportunity to participate in workshops that provided a hands on approach to different career fields including hydrology, chemistry, biology, cryptology, and robotics. The students worked with college students, graduate students and professors to complete different experiments in these areas of study.
These students are working hard to prepare for the banquet on Saturday where they will present their final presentation. They have accomplished much this past week at the academy and they are excited to share what they have learned with you. We hope to see you tomorrow!
Don't forget to check out the Facebook and Twitter pages for more videos and ISAS content.
--Camille
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| Boise State University's microgravity team speaks to ISAS students in a presentation. |
Next Ralph Peterson gave a presentation on the program called Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) which consists of an infrared telescope mounted in a plane that flies at 38,000 feet. This allows the infrared light from stars to be seen and that data used for research. The program allows for teams of educators to join the flight and Mr. Peterson spoke of his experience.
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| Mr. Peterson stands in front of a SOFIA display at NASA Ames Research Center. |
Soon afterwards students had the opportunity to participate in a videocon with Dan Isla who is a Boise State University graduate and Systems Engineer at NASA Jet Propulsion Lab. Mr. Isla worked on the Assembly Test and Launch Operations Team (ATLO) for the Mars Rover Curiosity and talked about the rover's activities on the planet and its instrumentation. Students posed the questions, "What is the optimal temperature for the rover to keep working?" And, "Can we use nuclear propulsion to provide electricity at the same time?" Also, "How do you safegaurd the electronics from the effects of radiation?" If you would like to know the answers to these questions yourselves be sure to come down to the banquet on Saturday and ask the students.
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| Students have a virtual chat with Dan Isla on the Curiosity Rover. |
The students had the opportunity to participate in workshops that provided a hands on approach to different career fields including hydrology, chemistry, biology, cryptology, and robotics. The students worked with college students, graduate students and professors to complete different experiments in these areas of study.
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| A student writes programming in a cryptology workshop. |
Don't forget to check out the Facebook and Twitter pages for more videos and ISAS content.
--Camille
Friday, July 12, 2013
SDE Summer Reading List
Every summer when school is out of session, we encourage kids to keep up their studies by reading a good book.
We at the Idaho State Department of Education thought we would help out a little by offering some of our favorite summer reads that we enjoyed as kids or that our kids are enjoying today.
Audra Urie, Driver Education Coordinator, recommended the Percy Jackson Series by Rick Riordan. It is for middle school or junior high-age students. It’s an adventure/mystery based on Greek mythology. This series also got another recommended from our NAEP Coordinator Angela Hemingway!
Marcia Beckman, Title I Director, suggested any of the Little Britches by Ralph Moody series. It’s based on the young life of the author. It takes place during the difficult economic times of the 1930s, and is a good read for any young adult, boy or girl.
Alison Lowenthal, Special Education Coordinator, recommended several books based on what her kids are reading today, but her personal favorite in 4th grade was Daphne's Book by Mary Downing Hahn.
Megan Schenk, Administrative Assistant in Child Nutrition Programs, suggested Hoot by Carl Hiaasen. It’s intended for middle school-age kids. “This book is a great mix of humor and suspense,” she said. “It also has a great message for kids who are bullied and for kids who would like to make a difference in the world but don't know how.”
Angela Hemingway, NAEP Coordinator, said her personal favorite is Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls. It is best for children in grades 5-8. “This is one of my all-time favorite books about a boy, his dog and their adventures,” she said.
Do you have a suggestion for a great book kids should be reading this summer? Post it in the comments!
Please note: These are just recommendations. We strongly encourage children to always check with their parents before selecting a book to read.
~ Melissa M.
We at the Idaho State Department of Education thought we would help out a little by offering some of our favorite summer reads that we enjoyed as kids or that our kids are enjoying today.
Audra Urie, Driver Education Coordinator, recommended the Percy Jackson Series by Rick Riordan. It is for middle school or junior high-age students. It’s an adventure/mystery based on Greek mythology. This series also got another recommended from our NAEP Coordinator Angela Hemingway!
Marcia Beckman, Title I Director, suggested any of the Little Britches by Ralph Moody series. It’s based on the young life of the author. It takes place during the difficult economic times of the 1930s, and is a good read for any young adult, boy or girl.
Alison Lowenthal, Special Education Coordinator, recommended several books based on what her kids are reading today, but her personal favorite in 4th grade was Daphne's Book by Mary Downing Hahn.
Megan Schenk, Administrative Assistant in Child Nutrition Programs, suggested Hoot by Carl Hiaasen. It’s intended for middle school-age kids. “This book is a great mix of humor and suspense,” she said. “It also has a great message for kids who are bullied and for kids who would like to make a difference in the world but don't know how.”
Angela Hemingway, NAEP Coordinator, said her personal favorite is Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls. It is best for children in grades 5-8. “This is one of my all-time favorite books about a boy, his dog and their adventures,” she said.
Do you have a suggestion for a great book kids should be reading this summer? Post it in the comments!
Please note: These are just recommendations. We strongly encourage children to always check with their parents before selecting a book to read.
~ Melissa M.
ISAS 2013 Academy 1: Day 5
The students' day began with a tour of the Micron facilities where they not only learned about the process used to create memory products using silicon wafers but they were also able to view different aspects of the research and development with these wafers. Students learned that the Boise site is primarily focused on research and development, in comparison to a focus on manufacturing.
Students were able to view the clean room where the wafers are created with the use of an Automated Materials Handling System (AMHS). This automated system bypasses the need for workers to be in direct contact with wafers. Pods take the wafers to and from different tools that are used in the manufacturing process.
Students were also allowed to tour the Surface Analysis Lab where tests are done on the wafers to assist research. The Analytical Chemstry Lab is where students watched acid dissolve a top layer off a wafer called Borophosphosilicate glass. This process is used to find exactly what is on the glass. And the Transmission Electron Microscope allowed students to see what an atom looked like.
After Micron the students were able to participate in a rocket launch put on by Corey Morasch and J.C. Worthen. Students were so impressed by this launch that they formed a rocket team at the park. This team will be a part of the program Team America Rocketry Challenge which has competitions at the Marshall Space Flight Center.
The students returned to the Boise State University campus to work on mission planning. With a lot of new information acquired from NASA Ames, the students had a lot to think about and discuss.
The final presentation of the day was from former astronaut Wendy Lawrence. Her talk generated many questions about the human body in space such as, "Are there sleep disorders associated with sleeping in micro-gravity?" Or, "Has any thought been put into changing the color scheme of the International Space Station to something more therapeutic?" And also, "Is Electromuscular stimulation an option to protect against muscular atrophy in space?" These ISAS students are daily proposing questions of incredible depth and interest.
In Wendy Lawrence's presentation students from the Boise State University's Summer Research program were present to also listen to the former astronaut speak. Afterwards ISAS students had the opportunity to interact with and ask questions of these college students giving them more exposure to the opportunities they will have when they reach college.
You may be wondering if these kids have any fun time scheduled? Yes! Tonight was a special night in the Student Union Building where they had some recreation time including bowling, ping pong and pool. They appreciate the break as tomorrow will be another busy day at the Academy.
Thank you for reading and as always be sure to check out the Facebook and Twitter pages for more photos and frequent updates during the day. And we hope to see you at the banquet on Saturday where the students are sure to be presenting an engaging and impressive final presentation. #ISAS
--Camille
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| Micron Technologies, Boise Idaho |
Students were able to view the clean room where the wafers are created with the use of an Automated Materials Handling System (AMHS). This automated system bypasses the need for workers to be in direct contact with wafers. Pods take the wafers to and from different tools that are used in the manufacturing process.
Students were also allowed to tour the Surface Analysis Lab where tests are done on the wafers to assist research. The Analytical Chemstry Lab is where students watched acid dissolve a top layer off a wafer called Borophosphosilicate glass. This process is used to find exactly what is on the glass. And the Transmission Electron Microscope allowed students to see what an atom looked like.
After Micron the students were able to participate in a rocket launch put on by Corey Morasch and J.C. Worthen. Students were so impressed by this launch that they formed a rocket team at the park. This team will be a part of the program Team America Rocketry Challenge which has competitions at the Marshall Space Flight Center.
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| Students will be forming their own rocket club in the near future. |
The students returned to the Boise State University campus to work on mission planning. With a lot of new information acquired from NASA Ames, the students had a lot to think about and discuss.
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| Team leaders meet to discuss the mission. |
The final presentation of the day was from former astronaut Wendy Lawrence. Her talk generated many questions about the human body in space such as, "Are there sleep disorders associated with sleeping in micro-gravity?" Or, "Has any thought been put into changing the color scheme of the International Space Station to something more therapeutic?" And also, "Is Electromuscular stimulation an option to protect against muscular atrophy in space?" These ISAS students are daily proposing questions of incredible depth and interest.
 |
| Green Team poses with former astronaut Wendy Lawrence. |
In Wendy Lawrence's presentation students from the Boise State University's Summer Research program were present to also listen to the former astronaut speak. Afterwards ISAS students had the opportunity to interact with and ask questions of these college students giving them more exposure to the opportunities they will have when they reach college.
You may be wondering if these kids have any fun time scheduled? Yes! Tonight was a special night in the Student Union Building where they had some recreation time including bowling, ping pong and pool. They appreciate the break as tomorrow will be another busy day at the Academy.
Thank you for reading and as always be sure to check out the Facebook and Twitter pages for more photos and frequent updates during the day. And we hope to see you at the banquet on Saturday where the students are sure to be presenting an engaging and impressive final presentation. #ISAS
--Camille
Thursday, July 11, 2013
ISAS 2013 Academy 1: Day 4
This morning the students were wide awake and ready to start their second day at the NASA Ames Research Center. After such an exciting time yesterday they knew to expect an engaging and informing time through the presentations and tours that would be given and NASA did not disappoint those expectations.
Mark Leon was the first presenter of the day. He gave the students three keys to engineering. Do the math, be persistent and take risks. Mr. Leon is an Electrical Engineer and was hired at to work at NASA at eighteen years old. Through him students learned about the Lunar Micro Rovers. With a possible 2018 launch, these cost effective rovers are planning to land in the southern poles of the moon to look for water ice. The students were able to recall many specific numbers for Mr. Leon such as the distance from the Earth to the Moon and the speed of light.
Students went to the Arc Jet where different materials are tested with intense heat. Led by Ernie Fretter they were able to see and hear about the different materials that are tested and the process of the testing. The students arrived at just the right time for they had the chance to actually observe a test of the heat shield for the Orion Crew Vehicle.
They also paid a vist to the Fluid Dynamics Lab and were able to see the "Life Saver" wind tunnel. Students learned that when it is time for FIFA World Soccer Cup, the soccer ball design is tested in that wind tunnel. And that the popular show Myth Busters also conducts tests at the wind tunnel and other locations on NASA Ames.
Students also had the chance to hear the change of frequency in the wind coming out of the tunnel by using a tube with one end held by their ear and the other end held at the end of the tunnel.
In the same lab the students were able to view a water channel simulator that simulated wind flow around cars or other objects.
Soon after students were glad to see Pascal Lee once again as he delivered a presentation on research at Devon Island. The largest uninhabited island in the world that is much like the Mars surface and therefore a perfect place to test rovers in a martian-like terrain. Mr. Lee also talked about the specifics of planning a Mars mission such as layout of the colony, space suit design, rovers, and crew selection.
Maria Bualat who has been with NASA for 26 years and works with the Intelligent Robotics Group, spoke to the students on the Mars Robot Rovers. Her particular project deals with the software rovers use and mission operations. Rovers will be needed to go out to scientific places of interest on Mars and look for safety issues on the way and at the destination that might hinder astronauts. Rovers will also help the astronauts improve upon the scientific data they will be collecting. The K10 is a fully functional rover and while it is not meant to be Mars ready it is used in tests on martian-like terrain to test its software performance.
Students visited the Crew-Vehicle Systems Research Facility for a tour led by David Chin. They were able to look at a full 747 simulator and a few students had the opportunity to fly in the simulation as well. They also learned about Ed Link who made an early version of a simulator called the Link Flight Trainer. There was also an radar room for air traffic controllers where research is done to see if computers can help with the increasing demands air traffic controllers face as the number of airplane flights rise.
The Atlas Booster rocket was originally tested at the Ames Research Center and afterwards the facility became home to the Mars Wind Tunnel. This particular wind tunnel simulates martian wind conditions. Ken Smith led this tour and was willing to answer any questions the students had for him.
The students left the NASA Ames Research Center and arrived back at Boise on a very late flight. Tomorrow starts bright and early for them with much to do. We want to thank Tony Leavitt and all of the other professionals at NASA Ames Research Center who helped make this trip one of the most exciting and engaging experiences the students have had at the Academy. Don't forget to check out the Facebook and Twitter pages for more updates during the day. And we hope to see you at the banquet for the final presentation on Saturday.
--Camille
Mark Leon was the first presenter of the day. He gave the students three keys to engineering. Do the math, be persistent and take risks. Mr. Leon is an Electrical Engineer and was hired at to work at NASA at eighteen years old. Through him students learned about the Lunar Micro Rovers. With a possible 2018 launch, these cost effective rovers are planning to land in the southern poles of the moon to look for water ice. The students were able to recall many specific numbers for Mr. Leon such as the distance from the Earth to the Moon and the speed of light.
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| Mark Leon appreciated the students' participation in his presentation. |
Students went to the Arc Jet where different materials are tested with intense heat. Led by Ernie Fretter they were able to see and hear about the different materials that are tested and the process of the testing. The students arrived at just the right time for they had the chance to actually observe a test of the heat shield for the Orion Crew Vehicle.
 |
| Students get the exciting opportunity to see a heat shield test for the upcoming Orion Crew Vehicle. |
They also paid a vist to the Fluid Dynamics Lab and were able to see the "Life Saver" wind tunnel. Students learned that when it is time for FIFA World Soccer Cup, the soccer ball design is tested in that wind tunnel. And that the popular show Myth Busters also conducts tests at the wind tunnel and other locations on NASA Ames.
 |
| Students are shown the "Life Saver" wind tunnel. |
Students also had the chance to hear the change of frequency in the wind coming out of the tunnel by using a tube with one end held by their ear and the other end held at the end of the tunnel.
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| Students are listening for a frequency change in the wind. |
In the same lab the students were able to view a water channel simulator that simulated wind flow around cars or other objects.
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| A model car is being shown in a simulation under blacklight. |
Soon after students were glad to see Pascal Lee once again as he delivered a presentation on research at Devon Island. The largest uninhabited island in the world that is much like the Mars surface and therefore a perfect place to test rovers in a martian-like terrain. Mr. Lee also talked about the specifics of planning a Mars mission such as layout of the colony, space suit design, rovers, and crew selection.
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| Pascal Lee speaking to students during a presentation. |
Maria Bualat who has been with NASA for 26 years and works with the Intelligent Robotics Group, spoke to the students on the Mars Robot Rovers. Her particular project deals with the software rovers use and mission operations. Rovers will be needed to go out to scientific places of interest on Mars and look for safety issues on the way and at the destination that might hinder astronauts. Rovers will also help the astronauts improve upon the scientific data they will be collecting. The K10 is a fully functional rover and while it is not meant to be Mars ready it is used in tests on martian-like terrain to test its software performance.
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| Maria Bualat speaks to students during a presentation. |
Students visited the Crew-Vehicle Systems Research Facility for a tour led by David Chin. They were able to look at a full 747 simulator and a few students had the opportunity to fly in the simulation as well. They also learned about Ed Link who made an early version of a simulator called the Link Flight Trainer. There was also an radar room for air traffic controllers where research is done to see if computers can help with the increasing demands air traffic controllers face as the number of airplane flights rise.
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| Students experience a full 747 flight simulator. |
The Atlas Booster rocket was originally tested at the Ames Research Center and afterwards the facility became home to the Mars Wind Tunnel. This particular wind tunnel simulates martian wind conditions. Ken Smith led this tour and was willing to answer any questions the students had for him.
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| Ken Smith stands in front of the Mars Wind Tunnel speaking to the students. |
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| Students stand in front of the intake for the Mars Wind Tunnel. |
The students left the NASA Ames Research Center and arrived back at Boise on a very late flight. Tomorrow starts bright and early for them with much to do. We want to thank Tony Leavitt and all of the other professionals at NASA Ames Research Center who helped make this trip one of the most exciting and engaging experiences the students have had at the Academy. Don't forget to check out the Facebook and Twitter pages for more updates during the day. And we hope to see you at the banquet for the final presentation on Saturday.
--Camille