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We have lift off! Science Literacy Week launched with help from some Little Inventors
General news
September 13, 2018
There is no doubt that life in space can be challenging. So, how would you react to an invention that helps astronauts both get a better night’s sleep in space and allow their bodies to re-energize? Or to boots with special imprints so when astronauts visit other planets, they can leave a message on the surface? What about one that purifies the environment in a crowded and closed space station, when an astronaut has to pass gas?
Well, thanks to Little Inventors: Inventions for Space, kids from across Canada have imagined more than 2,000 inventions to help astronauts and space travelers have a better, more comfortable and fun stay in space.
At a special launch event of Science Literacy Week, 13 prototypes of these unique space inventions were unveiled during an event at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum. Science Literacy week, taking place between September 17 and 23, 2018 and led by NSERC, is an annual public celebration of science and connects Canadians with the curiosity and wonder of the world around them. Hundreds of events are planned throughout the week across the country. To find one near you, have a look at the event list.
Little Inventors lift off!
This year, close to 1,000 schools across Canada participated in NSERC’s Little Inventors: Inventions for Space made possible with the leadership of Little Inventors UK and in collaboration with the Canadian Space Agency (CSA).
This edition of Little Inventors stimulated the imagination and creativity of grade school students, challenging them to come up with an invention idea that could make life in space easier for astronauts. Students were invited to draw their idea, explain it, and with the help of magnificent Canadian makers and artisans, turn them into real, live objects.
Later this year, one very special invention will be selected to make an appearance in space alongside astronaut David Saint-Jacques who becomes the next Canadian to embark on a mission to the International Space Station.
Exhibit at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum
The Little Inventors: Inventions for Space exhibit will be featured in the Space Discovery Zone at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum until the end of October. Please visit the Museum’s website for more details.
Please join us as we celebrate the imagination of youth across Canada and celebrate another week-long celebration of science literacy and outreach.