Space ClubS

Igniting The Curiosity Of Future Explorers

Introduction

The Interstellar Foundation is an organization dedicated to designing and sending human-made artifacts into the depths of space, encapsulating the essence of humanity's achievements, culture, and aspirations. These artifacts will serve as time capsules representing our collective identity.

Here on earth, we are also dedicated to addressing limited availability of learning opportunities, under supported school systems and inadequate environmental education. Through our ISF Space Clubs initiative, we hope to help improve outcomes in these key areas.

Program Overview

  • Focus on developing critical thinking skills through the scientific method, logic, and debate.
  • Targeting students in underserved communities in Sub-Saharan Africa.
  • Aiming to create a more inclusive and equitable STEM education experience.
  • Utilizing a student-led, project-based learning approach.
In the last decade, space exploration has re-emerged as a concept that has captured the attention of public and governments, as evidenced by the 77 national space agencies worldwide.

Technological advances on Earth also continue to shape, shift, and save our world. Due to the fast-changing nature of technology, countries have recognized the importance of having a population that is well-equipped with knowledge and skills in science, engineering, and mathematics.
Thus, countries are turning their funding toward STEM education and research as drivers of national development and productivity, economic competitiveness, and environmental and societal wellbeing in our rapidly changing world.

Interstellar Foundation's mission is to enable the next generation of scientists, explorers, and story tellers through equitable access to culturally relevant STEM education with real world applicability.

Development Team

Marianne Montalvo

Head of Program Development
Heather Cowap

Curriculum writer and head of ISF education
Isabel Nuñez Lendo

National Geographic Explorer, grant submissions expert
Carla Trippe

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning Specialist

Key Features

ISF Space Clubs will be student-run and adult-supported, allowing students to direct their own learning and ask for support from educators and STEM mentors when needed.

By combining the sense of wonder elicited by space exploration, direct application of learning to real world problems, and the autonomy created by the club design, students will be able to build their skills, understand the importance of STEM to real world issues, and will connect to the STEM career pipeline.
  • Modular Learning
    Self-paced exploration of space exploration topics with real-world applications.
  • Focus on Sustainability
    Links learning to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
  • Career Exploration
    Features interviews with STEM professionals to showcase career paths.
  • Club Structure
    Designed to be adaptable to different school contexts with and without internet access.
  • Emphasis on Inclusivity
    Promotes participation from underrepresented groups in STEM fields.
  • Globally Connected
    Encourages communication and collaboration among clubs from different countries.

Learning Topics

  • Life and Environment
    Understanding how life exists on Earth.
  • Astronomy
    Exploring the wonders of the night sky.
  • Law in Space
    Considering legal frameworks for space exploration.
  • Farming and Agriculture
    Finding solutions for sustainable food production on other planets.
  • Community and Science
    Collaborating with astronomers for real-world sky observation.
  • Entrepreneurial Endeavours in Space Tourism
    Exploring business opportunities related to space travel.

Expected Outcomes

  • Increased interest in STEM fields among participants.
  • Improved critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Enhanced understanding of space exploration and its connection to life on Earth.
  • Inspiration to pursue careers in STEM professions.
  • Creation of a more inclusive and equitable STEM learning environment.

Pilot Program

ISF is partnering with UNESCO and their school network for a Space Club pilot program. Pilot schools will serve students that have historically been excluded from space education and access to STEM careers. In each country, we will partner with schools that differ in socioeconomic context and demographics.
  • Launching in 6 schools across 3 countries: Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa.
  • Schools are selected from the UNESCO School Network to ensure diverse representation.
  • Clubs will consist of 10-25 students with an adult sponsor for guidance.
Glendale Secondary School
Cape Town, South Africa

UNESCO Coordinator:
Mamel Fuzile
Corona School, Victoria Island
Lagos, Nigeria

UNESCO Coordinator:
Tessy Amayo
Mang'u High School
Nairobi, Kenya

UNESCO Coordinator:
Nancy Njeri Mbugua

Join the Movement

The program is currently in the pilot phase, but stay tuned for updates on how to get involved in the future!
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