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I’M BACK! Space camp was AMAZING! From the get go we were referred to as trainees, and everything we did was done as if it were real. I was part of team Cepheus, 16 trainees aged 9-11, from all around USA ( plus me from NZ and someone from the Bahamas ).
Here are just a few of the amazing things I did…
. I slept in a space station mockup, where Even the doors were space airlock doors
. Watched lots of amazing, mind blowing, space stuff on big screens
. Mission training. I was FAO (flight activities officer), so I had to make sure the people were doing what they were supposed to in while in space flight. I was in MOCR (Mission Operation Control Room)
. We went on all the rides at the space center. My favourite was the G-force! It spun you like a centrifuge until you couldn't even move your head and it felt like your feet were being squashed.
. We built and launched solid fuel rockets. Mine went well in the end, and I got to keep it!
. Met space shuttle astronaut Hoot Gibson, and heard about his experiences on 5 shuttle missions. It was inspirational.
. Mission training number 2. I was chosen for the ultimate role: Space Shuttle commander! I was in charge of all operations inside the shuttle. We had some anomalies, which we had to work as a team to solve, but I am pleased to say the mission was successful!
It was a week full of science and engineering and space and learning, and I loved every minute of it! Even the food was awesome, we ate international dishes every night… Russian food is delicious. I will miss the chicken, waffles, melon and hash bites for breakfast and ice cream for lunch!
My biggest highlight was graduating in my flight suit, and having Hoot Gibson switch my name tag around! I also got a medal for my scholarship. I felt proud and I really hope I can go back to do Space Academy. I HAVE to go back!!!
Gemma
- comments
Laura Solbak Dear Gemma, what a mind blowing experience for you, you must have had such a wonderful time and the things you did were incredible. Love the photo of you. G Force is pretty amazing feeling isn't it. We are so delighted you had such an awesome time. Bet you were such a good FAO and Shuttle Commander!! Space Academy watch out for Gemma coming back!!!! Lots of big hugs Jan and Laura
Laureen Outtrim Ah! This is what we have been waiting to hear about!!!! Gemna, what a fab time you have had - certainly unique and challenging. Love from Ganga and Nana xxx