Space Foundation and Connecticut Science Center Host Space in the Community Event
Space Foundation and Connecticut Science Center Host Space in the Community Event
STEM-Focused Family Event Sponsored by The Petit Family Foundation
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. and HARTFORD, Conn. – Jan. 9, 2025 – Space Foundation, in partnership with the Connecticut Science Center, is excited to announce, “Space in the Community,” a day-long celebration of space exploration and STEM learning. This exciting, family-friendly event will take place on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Connecticut Science Center, 250 Columbus Blvd, Hartford.
This event is made possible by the collaborative efforts of Space Foundation and the Connecticut Science Center, with generous funding from The Petit Family Foundation, a key supporter of STEM education initiatives. It is for families and promises an unforgettable experience packed with inspiring stories, interactive activities, and hands-on learning.
“Thanks to The Petit Family Foundation’s support, we are able to bring this extraordinary experience to Hartford, sparking the imagination of children and adults alike,” said Melanie Stricklan, executive director, Space Workforce for Tomorrow, Space Foundation. “Space in the Community is a testament to the power of partnerships in promoting STEM education and creating opportunities for the next generation.
Dr. William A. Petit Jr., president of The Petit Family Foundation, shared, “We’re excited to continue our partnership with Space Foundation to bring meaningful STEM experiences to Connecticut’s students. We aim to ignite a lasting curiosity in young minds — particularly those from underrepresented communities — and inspire them to dream big in science, technology, engineering, and math.”
Event Highlights
- Meet Astronauts:
Engage with former NASA astronaut Kathryn “Kathy” Thornton and private SpaceX astronaut Scott “Kidd” Poteet as they share their extraordinary journeys into space and answer questions about life in orbit.- Kathryn “Kathy” Thornton: A veteran astronaut with four spaceflights and over 975 hours in space, including 21 hours on spacewalks. Dr. Thornton was pivotal in the historic repair of the Hubble Space Telescope. She will share stories from her missions and discuss the teamwork and resilience needed for success in space exploration.
- Scott “Kidd” Poteet: A retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel and the SpaceX spacecraft pilot for the Polaris Dawn mission, a landmark commercial spaceflight in 2024. Scott will offer insights into piloting a spacecraft and advancing the future of commercial space travel.
- STEM Activities: Build and launch rockets, explore robotics and gravity, and dive into the fascinating Europa Clipper mission.
- Family Fun for All Ages: Enjoy engaging, educational activities designed to inspire curiosity and passion for STEM fields.
- Interactive Learning: Experience the latest in space science and technology through exhibits and hands-on demonstrations.
Admission is free for families and students participating in the event. Use promo code SFFamilyDay to register at www.ctsciencecenter.org/shop. Advance registration is required to secure your spot.
About Space in the Community
Space in the Community is an initiative of Space Foundation to help regional communities encourage students to become lifelong learners and pursue studies in the global space ecosystem and, in turn, build a local workforce to strengthen economic development. Through partnerships, Space Foundation hosts events that inspire students, families, teachers and caregivers with role models from the space industry and hands-on activities. Visit Space in the Community at https://discoverspace.org/Education/Space-in-the-Community.
About Space Foundation
Space Foundation is a nonprofit organization founded in 1983 as a gateway to unite the global space community and accelerate its growth and success. Space Foundation uniquely educates, collaborates and informs the entire space workforce from early education to college, to the start of their careers as new professionals, and to leaders at the highest levels in government and commercial industry. Driven by partnerships, Space Foundation raises support from corporate members, sponsors, fundraising and grants. Visit Space Foundation at www.SpaceFoundation.org, and follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.
Media Contacts:
Rich Cooper
Vice President, Strategic Communications & Outreach
Space Foundation
(202) 596-0714
rcooper@spacefoundation.org
Kate Terricciano
Petit Family Foundation
(860) 919-1020
kate@imagemarketingconsultants.com
Dottie O’Rourke
TECHMarket Communications
(650) 344-1260
SpaceFoundation@techmarket.com