Astronauts share their experience of life on the ISS and help pupils to explore Earth from space through science and maths activities.
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) in collaboration with the Emirates Amateur Radio Society (EARS) and Emirates Literature Foundation (ELF) arranged the first ham radio session with astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi from the International Space Station (ISS).
The event, held at MBRSC, is the first in a series of 10 ham radio sessions under the A Call with Space event.
As part of the ELF in Space initiative, between MBRSC and Emirates Literature Foundation, which aims to bring space closer to the community, 25 students from various schools got the opportunity to connect with astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi. The radio communication between MBRSC and the ISS, was arranged in collaboration with EARS at the Centres Ground Station, as the ISS passed over the region.
Ham radio, or amateur radio, is a hobby that enables the communication between individuals, groups, and even remote regions, making it a valuable tool in emergencies. Using a broad spectrum of frequencies, ham radio enthusiasts have the ability to communicate with others locally, internationally and even in space.
The ISS has its own international ham radio programme called the Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS). It aims to inspire students worldwide to pursue interests and careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through amateur radio communications with the ISS on-orbit crew. ARISS exposes students to life onboard the ISS and helps them explore Earth from space through science and math activities. The programme also raises awareness within the school community about the benefits of human spaceflight and the exploration and discovery that occur on spaceflight journeys.
During the ham radio session, enthusiastic participants from schools in the UAE had the opportunity to ask Al Neyadi questions about the launch, inspiration to become an astronaut, life on the ISS, scientific experiments being conducted, visible changes in climate, as well as memorable experiences and space-related activities. AlNeyadi generously shared his experiences on the ISS, and also spoke about how they communicate on the space station, as well as maintain their physical and psychological health.
In the 10-minute session, Al Neyadi provided valuable insights and fuelled the curiosity of the attendees, encouraging them to explore the realms of space further. On being asked about his favourite activity in space, much to the delight of students, Al Neyadi answered that he, liked floating in space, like Superman, from one module to the other. Sharing the message of the importance of protecting our planet, Al Neyadi mentioned that he was able to understand the value of our planet from space and that it is the responsibility of everyone to protect our resources and preserve the environment.
