The fourth graders were overwhelmed after getting their questions answered by astronauts
Fourth graders from a Karachi school have sent their questions to NASA about the experience of space travel as well as how one can become a part of the experience. The astronauts at NASA have replied back and answered their various queries.
The response from the astronauts have left the students both ecstatic and a little surprised. Some of them could not believe that they actually were responded to.
How it began
The students tweeted at various twitter handles associated with NASA. “We read about you in all your books and are fascinated by your adventure in space. We really admire your work and have some questions for you, eagerly waiting for your reply,” the little ones said.
Astronauts respond
The tweet was shared by thousands of people and soon enough the answers came. Emily Calandrelli, an American science communicator and the host of Xploration Outer Space, responded to several questions. First she answered about the fuels used in rockets.
“Alisha – All different types! Some popular rockets that you’ll see will use a fuel + an oxidizer,” she replied. “For example, something called RP-1 and then liquid oxygen. These are combined together and then ignited and burned to create a big (controlled) explosion that moves the rocket!.”
Emily also shed light on the education requirements to join NASA. “NASA needs all types of people for their missions! Mostly scientists and engineers (so studying a STEM degree is a good idea!) but also IT people, human resources specialists, accountants, technicians, writers, etc! But remember you will probably need to be a US citizen.”
An Astronaut shared the actual space travel experience. “Mahrukh, I flew in the Space Shuttle twice. You feel violently shaken, squished, super-focused, excited and lucky,” said Canadian Astronaut Chris Hadfield.
“Rayyan – I wasn’t scared we’d get lost. We had the Earth nearby, and used the stars to steer. I felt especially comforted when I flew over home. Here’s a photo I took of Karachi – can you find your school?” he asked.