In case you haven’t heard, one of CrossPointe’s most celebrated programs is the robotics program. From the North American Open in California last May to Skype calls with NASA, this special group of students is always up to something.
In fact, the Crossbots recently qualified for the Arkansas FLL state tournament after they earned first place project award and third place robot performance at the qualifying tournament.
There’s a reason they are learning from NASA: this year’s FLL theme is “Into Orbit.” And as part of their education, they had the opportunity to attend Space Camp in Hunstville, Alabama.
Coach Jamie Bradshaw highlighted the trip for us and spoke about the impact it had on the group. Among other things, the group participated in a simulated launch of the Shuttle Endeavor to and from the International Space Station. They also built and launched their own rockets and saw an actual moon rock. They explored how the International Space Station serves as a testing facility for living and operating in microgravity and hostile conditions of outer space to prepare for future long duration space travel.
Coach Bradshaw also said the group was most impacted by the beautiful night sky and the realization that our Creator is an amazing artist. As the psalmist said, “Give thanks to him who made the heavens so skillfully. His faithful love endures forever. Give thanks to him who made the heavenly lights–His faithful love endures forever. the sun to rule the day, His faithful love endures forever. and the moon and stars to rule the night. His faithful love endures forever.” Psalm 136:5, 7-9 (New Living Translation)
Overall, the trip was a success and brought many of our students back with a smile on their faces. They got to experience something that can potentially be a part of their future and got to have fun as well.
