GDST Space Technology Diploma Students Present to NASA Scientists
By Anna W, Year 12
This year, some of our computer science students were able to complete a new programme called the GDST Space Tech Diploma. The Diploma allowed us to learn how physicists use computational methods during their research into space exploration. We completed a range of different modules each looking at a different aspect of space exploration and analysis and using different programming skills. We created a simulation of the MIRI device on the James Webb telescope. We used matplotlib to input the pixels of an image and then view it under different filters. We completed linear regression data analysis using data from My NASA Data to see the relationship between different sets of data. Another of the projects was to use rocket.py to simulate a rocket launch. We set the environment on the day of the launch as well as the rocket’s measurements and parachute data.
On Friday the 9th of June, some of our Year 12 computer scientists who have been working on the GDST Space Tech Diploma explained above got the exciting opportunity to present their findings with other students from across England in front of experienced NASA scientists.
The day began with a breakfast provided by the AWS catering team which fuelled us up for the exciting day ahead. We then listened to a talk by Phil Cooper about AWS concepts. This was followed by a talk by Sara Alão from Cranfield University where she is the President of CranSEDS. Sara spoke about her experience at Cranfield and her very interesting interactions with rockets and robots. After we presented, we had another fascinating talk from the engineer keynote speakers Haleh Safavi and Victoria Wu of the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center talking about the use of software in their fields. In the afternoon we were able to practise the skills we learned over the project. We gathered in groups with girls from other GDST schools and were given two variables, such as cloud cover and longwave radiation, to compare by downloading the data and plotting a linear regression. We delivered a presentation on our findings to people who work at NASA. We found working on this project challenging, as it was in a short space of time, but it was very rewarding.
The day ended with us receiving our GDST Space Tech Diploma, and an exciting tour of the Amazon HQ office which included an indoor golf course and Jeff Bezos’ office. Overall, it was a rewarding experience which was enjoyed by all.
