Space Foundation and L3Harris Host Space in the Community Event in Colorado Springs
Space Foundation and L3Harris Host Space in the Community Event in Colorado Springs
STEM-Focused Family Event Supported by L3Harris Technologies
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Oct. 23, 2025 — Space Foundation’s Space Workforce for Tomorrow (SWFT), in partnership with L3Harris Technologies is excited to announce Space in the Community (SITC), a week-long celebration of space exploration and STEM learning. This family-friendly event will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, from 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Space Foundation Discovery Center in Colorado Springs.
“With L3Harris’ generous support, we are excited to bring Space in the Community to students, educators and families in the Colorado Springs area,” said Melanie Stricklan, Executive Director, Space Workforce For Tomorrow. “Through targeted SITC programming, we equip young explorers with critical skills and confidence to thrive in the global space community.”
Through its SITC program, Space Foundation’s Space Workforce Team will visit elementary, middle, and high schools in Colorado Springs School District 11, providing teachers with space-focused lesson plans and materials for easy curriculum integration. Students can engage with Capt. Tony Antonelli (U.S. Navy, Ret.) during these visits. Guided by educators, students will explore the James Webb Space Telescope through hands-on STEM activities, learning about its transformative contributions to space science.
“By investing in programs like Space in the Community, L3Harris aims to ensure the continued growth and innovation of the industry and to inspire and prepare the next generation of professionals in the field,” said Ed Zoiss, president, Space and Airborne Systems, L3Harris. “These activities not only educate young people about space and technology but also encourage them to pursue careers in these fields, which is essential for fostering future innovation.”
Additionally, District 11 teachers will participate in a hybrid professional development workshop on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025, from 4:30-6:30 p.m. led by Space Foundation’s Space Workforce Team. The workshop will blend expert insights on JWST with hands-on lesson integration and collaborative breakout sessions. The training, open to educators across all subjects, emphasizes cross-curricular strategies linking space science to literacy, math, and other disciplines.
Participants will gain a deepened understanding, ready-to-implement Space in the Community lessons, peer-developed activities, and access to a shared resource library for ongoing classroom integration.
Event Highlights
- Meet Astronauts: Engage with Capt. Tony Antonelli (U.S. Navy, Ret.) , a former NASA astronaut who has accumulated over 4,700 flight hours in over 40 different kinds of aircraft and served as the pilot for two Space Shuttle missions: STS-119 and STS-132.
- STEM Activities: Build large telescopes, create a JWST mirror mural, explore light paths with Indis, exoplanet fishing, and infrared technology.
- Family Fun for All Ages: Enjoy engaging, educational activities designed to inspire curiosity and passion for STEM fields.
- Interactive Learning: Explore cutting-edge space science and technology through exhibits, hands-on demonstrations, and labs, with presentations by the Colorado Springs Astronomical Society.
For more information on the Space in the Community program and to get involved, visit discoverspace.org/space-in-the-community.
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 discoverspace.org/Education/Space-in-the-Community.
About Space Foundation
Space Foundation advances the global space community through education, collaboration and information. Founded in 1983, the nonprofit brings together space professionals, educators and leaders from around the world to highlight how space benefits life on Earth and beyond. As a charitable organization, Space Foundation is supported by members, sponsors, individuals and grants. Learn more at www.SpaceFoundation.org, and follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.
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Media Contacts:
Zakary Watson
Director, Communications
Space Foundation
(719) 362-8152
zwatson@spacefoundation.org
Irene Lockwood
Space and Airborne Systems
L3Harris Technologies
(585) 465-3592
Irene.Lockwood@L3Harris.com