Powerhouse: Future Space
Inaugural Program
Powerhouse: Future Space has been connecting Stage 5 students from six Western Sydney local government areas to the International Space Station and a global network of learners since 2022. In November 2024 we will launch a student-designed mission to the International Space Station, on board SpaceX-31.
Future Space Events
Powerhouse: Future Space connects Stage 5 students from six Western Sydney local government areas to the International Space Station and a global network of learners through the ExoLab-10 mission.
In 2022, students learned about the carbon cycle through the Exo Mission 10, growing alfalfa plants to study space life support systems and food production. The results influenced an experiment launched to the ISS in November 2022.
In 2023, students designed their own microgravity experiments, culminating in the selection of an experiment on the effects of microgravity on algae growth.
In 2024, students refined the experiment by conducting ground trials and finalising the design with guidance from industry professionals. Their work included determining factors like algae species and seed density, while also enhancing teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
The Powerhouse: Future Space schools include Arthur Phillip High School, Bankstown Girls High School, Casula High School, East Hills Girls Technology High School, Hurlstone Agricultural High School, and Seven Hills High School.
The program is delivered as part of the NSW Department of Education iSTEM elective: Design for Space. Powerhouse: Future Space is developed in partnership by Powerhouse, Magnitude.io and the NSW Department of Education, with support from Fizzics Education and presented as part of the Lang Walker Family Academy In-Schools Program.
Powerhouse: Future Space is developed in partnership by Powerhouse, Magnitude.io and the NSW Department of Education, with support from Fizzics Education and University of Technology Sydney, and presented as part of the Lang Walker Family Academy In-Schools Program.