A GIRVAN Academy pupil has bagged a trip of a lifetime and is off to NASA this summer.

Rachel Stirling has been selected to attend the International NASA Space School in Houston and will be fundraising over the next few months before embarking on this exciting adventure in the Summer.

NASA has been taking a leading role in the effort to inspire interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics through its unique mission, workforce, facilities, research, and innovations world wide.

Students, educators and faculty may explore and experience unique space and aeronautics content through NASA’s education opportunities. 

Rachel will learn about NASA’s journeys into air and space which has deepened humankind’s understanding of the universe, advanced technology breakthroughs, enhanced air travel safety and security, and expanded the frontiers of scientific research.

NASA will continue the Agency’s tradition of investing in the Nation’s education programmes and supporting the country’s educators who play a key role in preparing, inspiring, exciting, encouraging, and nurturing the young minds of today who will be the workforce of tomorrow. 

Rachel will follow in the footsteps of students Lauren and Antonio, of Girvan Academy, who won a place at Texas Space School last summer and hosted another several events to help them fund their trip.

NASA’s commitment to education places special emphasis on these goals by increasing elementary and secondary education participation in NASA projects; enhancing higher education capability in STEM disciplines; increasing participation by underrepresented and communities; expanding e-Education; and expanding NASA’s participation with the informal education community.

There will be opportunities to learn about NASA’s accomplishments since 1958, its scientific and technological feats in air and space. NASA technology also has been adapted for many nonaerospace uses by the private sector. 

NASA remains a leading force in scientific research and in stimulating public interest in aerospace exploration, as well as science and technology in general.