Advanced Space Technology Applications Laboratory - ASTAL - Uyo

ASTAL JOINS OTHER COUNTERPARTS IN COMMEMORATING 2023 WORLD SPACE WEEK

In a spectacular celebration of Space Week the Advance Space Technology Applications Laboratory (ASTAL) opened its doors to secondary school students, igniting their passion for space exploration and technology. The event, which held on 13th October, 2023 was a resounding success, fostering a sense of wonder and curiosity about the cosmos among the younger generation with emphasis on the year's theme: Space And Entrepreneurship.

ASTAL, a cutting-edge organization at the forefront of space technology research, hosted a day filled with educational activities, interactive exhibits, and engaging presentations. Secondary school students from across the region had the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of space technology.

The event featured a series of captivating presentations by ASTAL scientists and experts, who shared their insights on the latest advancements in space technology and its applications: Dr Amudu Simeon made a presentation on Essence of world space week; Antigha Bassey made a presentation on Space and Entrepreneurship. From discussions on rocket propulsion to the potential for human settlement on Mars, the students were treated to a wide range of space-related topics.

Highlights of the event was the hands-on experience with Binoculars, where students had the opportunity to view distant objects and GPS device to determine the location of points on the earth surface, a facility tour to the site of the ongoing permanent office complex. ASTAL's team of experts and educators provided guidance and answered questions, making it an insightful and memorable experience for the young minds.

In addition students from five various schools in Akwa Ibom state including: Nigerian Christian Institute, Monef High school, Saint's college, Federal Science and Technical College, Beulah International School participated in space-themed competitions and quizzes, testing their knowledge of space facts and cosmic phenomena. Prizes and certificates were awarded to the winners, fostering a spirit of curiosity and enthusiasm for space-related topics. These interactive experiences provided an up-close look at the tools and equipment used in space exploration.

ASTAL's Director, Dr. Kenneth Uchua expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, "Our goal is to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers, and Space week is the perfect occasion to ignite their curiosity about space technology. We hope that some of these bright young minds will one day contribute to groundbreaking advancements in space exploration."

The secondary school students left the event with a newfound appreciation for space technology and the possibilities it holds for the future. For many, the visit to ASTAL marked the beginning of a lifelong fascination with the cosmos.

The commemoration of Space Week at ASTAL serves as a reminder of the importance of inspiring and educating young minds about the wonders of space, as well as the vital role that organizations like ASTAL play in advancing space technology and exploration.

As the event concluded, students departed with a greater sense of excitement and determination to explore the frontiers of space, leaving ASTAL with the hope of a brighter and more innovative future in space technology.

For more information about ASTAL and their groundbreaking work, please visit website: http://www.astaluyo.gov.ng/
page: Advanced Space Technology Applications Laboratory - ASTAL Uyo.

Onuigbo Chiasoka
Media and Corporate Communications

ASTAL Women in Aerospace supports Science Education in Secondary Schools to Mark World GIS DAY

16th November is designated as Geographic Information Systems(GIS) Day, globally. It is a day that brings forth an opportunity for GIS professionals and organizations to highlight the prospect and gains of the GIS and its associate technologies.

In commemoration of the 2022 World GIS Day, also as part of cooperate social responsibility the Chairman, Women in Aerospace (WIA), Advanced Space Technology Applications Laboratory (ASTAL), Uyo, Dr. Esther Hanson, Esther Hanson and her Team, with the approval of the Executive Director Dr. Kenneth Uchua organized an Outreach programme for some secondary schools in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Two public secondary schools in Uyo, Akwa Ibom: Community Secondary School, Aka Offot Uyo and Secondary School, Etoi were beneficiaries.
The purpose of the visit was to promote science education in secondary schools with key emphasis on the girl child. The gesture seeks to kindle interest and encourage the young ones to pick up careers in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), with special emphasis on Space Science and Technology and other related fields of endeavour.
To this effect, some laboratory appurtenances were donated to help facilitate students learning experiences and exposure to hands-0n practical sessions. Furthermore, the event featured scientific presentations on the potentials and relevance of GIS to humanity .

The laboratory equipment were received by the principals of the various schools with enthusiasm and at the instance of their Staff and Students.