MICHAEL Foale CBE visited Ayrshire College Ayr this week as part of the Mission Discovery Ayrshire 2016 where 200 Ayrshire secondary pupils and college students competed to have their experiment launched into space.

In a fantastic incentive for Ayrshire students and pupils, the NASA ex-astronaut visited Ayrshire College in a week-long educational programme developed by the International Space School Educational Trust (ISSET).

The event was visited by 150 students from Ayrshire College and Academies from East, South and North Ayrshire as Foale was also accompanied by NASA’s Assistant Chief of EVA, Robotics & Crew Systems, Sarah Murray, Dr Julie Keeble of King’s College London and Chris Barber, Director of ISSET.

The winners at the end of the week will get to send their experiment into space where astronauts at the International Space Station will put their hardwork to the test.

The Mission Discovery week is an educational event like no other as students and pupils are learning about space science in the presence of the one of the most experienced NASA astronauts in Michael Foale, the first Briton to ever do a space walk.

Ayrshire College is hosting their space week at their Ayr Campus as the event is funded by the Ayrshire College foundation.

John Rainey, Chair of the Ayrshire College Foundation, said “Mission Discovery is a truly unique programme and a real once in a lifetime opportunity for the participants. The prize for the winning team of having their experiment tested in space is unbelievable.

“I would like to wish everyone taking part the very best of luck and hope they enjoy the week.”

Michael Foale CBE, former NASA astronaut, said “I am really looking forward to coming to Ayrshire to inspire and inform the students taking part in Mission Discovery.

“It is going to be fun learning what they think we can do next, on my old home the International Space Station.”

Heather Dunk, Principal of Ayrshire College, said “Thanks to the Ayrshire College Foundation we are able to engage with 200 secondary school pupils and college students through this exciting space project. It is important for us to showcase the wonderful opportunities available to Ayrshire pupils in science, technology, engineering and mathematics areas.”