Close encounter with a space ship

PUPILS at two Warrington schools could soon be within touching distance of a real space rocket – and have the chance to learn more about the British space programme.
Youngsters from Woolston High School and Lysander High School, Padgate, will learn about space travel when they are visited by the Starchaser Rocketry Programme on January 26.
Starchaser is a British space programme working on the idea of space tourism. The school visits will allow pupils to view the Skybolt Rocket – a completely reusable rocket.
The Starchaser team will deliver a presentation about the history of the programme and its current mission to send a rocket into space.
Members of the team will be on hand to explain the science behind the rocket and demonstrate the technology used in space flight.
The event has been organised by Aimhigher Cheshire and Warrington, one of 44 Aimhigher area partnerships working to widen participation in higher education by young people from under-represented groups.
Teresa Wong, Aimhigher Cheshire and Warrington vocational development officer (science, engineering and construction) said: “The presentation will focus on the spirit and determination of the Starchaser team and the work required to build a British space mission.
“The highlight of the talk will be a chance for Year 9, 10 and 11 pupils to get within touching distance of the Skybolt Rocket, and ask questions about its design and how it works.
“These sorts of events are fantastic for broadening our young learner’s minds, sparking their imagination and encouraging them to strive for their goals.”