For sixth-graders gathered around the robot, the buzz Thursday was about science, technology and space travel.
“This thing is awesome!” exclaimed J.P. Stallard, a 12-year-old student from L.F. Addington Middle School, as he and several classmates looked at a replica of Robonaut 2, a humanoid robot sent into space.
“This robot thing is awesome, [and so is] the Buzz Aldrin suit.”
A space suit worn by astronaut Buzz Aldrin, who walked on the moon in 1969, was among the exhibits on display at the University of Virginia’s College at Wise Convocation Center during Thursday’s International Space Station downlink event.
“The guy that played football and then became an astronaut, I want to be like that guy,” said Nick Salyer, 11, referring to astronaut Leland Melvin, who spoke to students during the event. “Except instead of football I want to play basketball.”
Zack Miller, 11, said he’s always dreamed of being an astronaut. But after catching a glimpse of life aboard the space station – and hearing from people who’ve actually been to space – it seems like the dream could someday become an actual reality.
“I’m going to college, and I’m going to study astronomy,” Zack said. “I thought I could [be an astronaut], but I didn’t know for sure.”
After seeing the downlink and other space-related presentations Thursday, he said, he knows for sure that going to space is an attainable goal.
Their teacher, Robyn Boggs, said the conversation was much different than it had been the day before, when they talked about video games, what to do after school and “trying to get out of homework, probably.”
It was a complete change after Thursday’s program, she said.
“Getting to see robots and actual things that they usually just see pictures of,” she said, “I think it just makes it real in their minds.”
Sarah Dotson, 11, said she looks at science a whole new way now.
“It’s not every day you get to meet an astronaut,” said 12-year-old Madison Lawson, “especially in Wise County.”
dmccown@bristolnews.com
(276) 791-0701
Quotes from students
- “I look at science a whole new way now.” Sarah Dotson, 11
- “It's not every day you get to meet an astronaut, especially in Wise County.” Madison Lawson, 12
- “I think it’s possible now.” Zack Miller, 11
- “The guy that played football and then became an astronaut, I want to be like that guy,” Nick Salyer, 11
- “This thing is awesome,” J.P. Stallard, 12, said of a robot.
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