Three Ballakermeen High School students have returned from an “amazing” adventure at the United Space School in Houston where they joined peers from 20 countries to plan a simulated crewed mission to Mars.
A-level students Guy McGuinness, Hollie Patterson-Hannay and Patrick Williams were this year’s recipients of the long-running scholarship programme awarded by River Advisers.
The programme has sponsored sixth-form students from the Isle of Man to attend the prestigious course since 2000.
Together
Reflecting on the two-week programme, Guy McGuinness said: “I really enjoyed the occasions when the whole school came together, cheering each other on during our final presentations.
“I loved celebrating together after our team won the football match against the NASA all stars.
It was amazing how much we bonded as a group considering we were only together for two weeks and from all different corners of the globe.
He added that speaking to astronauts made him realise “how special our planet is compared to the rest of the known universe”.
Life in Space
Hollie Patterson-Hannay, who worked on the rocket’s construction and transit, said: “The whole experience was amazing! One of the best days we had at the school was when we met astronaut Sunita Williams.
She gave us a lecture on what it is like for astronauts in space and what living on the International Space Station was like.”
The experience has inspired her to pursue a career in mechanical or aerospace engineering.
Patrick Williams, who was tasked with designing the Mars habitat, described the trip as surreal. “To visit the Johnson Space Center was amazing and it’s one of the most interesting places I have ever been to.
There were so many fantastic experiences, including a pool party that was held at the home of a host family.” He confirmed the experience has influenced him to pursue a science-related degree.
Landmark
River Advisers CEO Alexis Martin said: “Reaching 25 years is a significant landmark and we are extremely proud of all 55 students who have represented the Island over the years.”
Dr. Jennifer Stone, the first-ever scholarship winner and now Chief Strategy Officer at River Advisers, added: “We have received superb feedback from Space School on how well Guy, Hollie and Patrick acquitted themselves and the fine work they produced in their respective teams.”
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