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South Windsor students speak live with astronaut Jack Hathaway aboard the ISS
Summary
Ninth-grade students at South Windsor High had a live video call with alumnus astronaut Jack Hathaway on the International Space Station; students asked about 3D printing in microgravity and physical effects of space travel. Governor Ned Lamont and local media joined the event.
A group of ninth graders at South Windsor High School spoke live with alumnus Jack Hathaway, who is orbiting Earth aboard the International Space Station, during the April 28 board meeting.
Science teacher Danell Itel organized the call and told the board NASA approved a short, 25-minute window for the visit. "We had over 80 students submit questions," Itel said, and she selected a group to ask questions live.
Two students described the experience after the call. "I was able to ask him my question regarding what experiments they are doing in the ISS and what he thinks about it," said Luxia "Lucky" Kan, who asked about 3D printing aboard the station. She reported Hathaway explained how 3D printing lets astronauts make parts on station rather than wait for resupply from Earth.
Advoc Roshan, another ninth grader, said Hathaway showed students a view of Earth from the ISS and that the encounter "really boosted my confidence as a kid who was interested in science."
Hathaway, speaking from orbit, described some of the physiological effects of spaceflight: "My body doesn't know which way is up," he said, explaining that astronauts experience disorientation and must adapt to microgravity. He also answered questions about experiments and everyday life in space.
Governor Ned Lamont appeared briefly to congratulate Hathaway and the students. Local television covered the event; Fox 61 reporter Selene Arif captured portions of the exchange.
School leaders said the event linked directly to the ninth-grade science curriculum and involved substantial coordination with NASA. Danell Itel explained the district submitted an application and NASA scheduled the call with a narrow satellite-alignment window. Dr. Carter and several board members praised the teachers and students and discussed repeating the event in future years.
The board was told the full presentation and video are posted on the district website; Hathaway appears about 57 minutes into the posted recording. The district said NASA outreach staff indicated they may arrange a post-flight visit when Hathaway returns to Earth later in the fall.
Next steps: the district will keep the presentation online and explore repeating similar outreach events in future years.
