Hanoi students experience space exploration

Hundreds of children were excited about making paper rocket models, observing sunspots, satellite models and experiencing space through virtual reality glasses.

On the morning of September 17, the hall of the Vietnam Space Center (VNSC) was packed with children from primary and secondary schools in Hanoi participating in a space science experience activity with the theme "Turn on the flight mode". This event is part of a series of activities during the National STEM Festival directed by the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Ministry of Education and Training, and the Central Committee of the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, which is held annually nationwide.

Nguyen Hoang Son, a third grader at Marie Curie School (Hanoi), participated in the experience for the first time and was very excited. Overcoming his initial confusion, Son quickly joined his friends in practicing making paper rocket models.

Mr. Nguyen Hoang (Thai Ha, Dong Da district) said that the father and son woke up very early so as not to miss any activities. "The family hopes that the child will participate in community events to meet new friends, learn how to be creative, and develop a passion for learning and scientific research," he told VnExpress.

Children make paper rocket models by themselves following the instructions of the organizers. Photo: NQ

Nguyen Duc Hieu, a 7th grader at Hoang Mai Secondary School in Hoang Mai District, came to the event with his mother and younger brother. Hieu said his family learned about the event through the STEM Festival 2023 program reported on the media and was very excited when his mother asked about his desire to participate in the event. "The cutting was a bit difficult because my scissors were a bit dull, but I felt very happy," Hieu said while cutting the tip of the rocket.

In addition to making paper rockets, Hieu and his friends also experienced space through virtual reality glasses, directly seeing the beauty and movement of planets from many different angles. Many children enjoyed admiring satellite models, exploring and learning about astronomy, observing the sun through telescopes; learning about the history, parts and applications of rockets in life. Interesting knowledge about space science was also shared by experts from the Vietnam Space Center.

Students explore the universe through hands-on activities. Photo: NQ

Nguyen An Khanh and his friends in class 8A3 of Thanh Quan Secondary School, Hoan Kiem District, were excited to observe small rays and sunspots on the Sun through a telescope. Khanh said that the interesting experiences helped expand his knowledge, expected to learn more about the universe, and hoped to receive a prize from the contest.

Students observe the Sun through telescopes. Photo: NQ

At the event, the Organizing Committee also launched the Vietnam Water Rocket Competition (VWRC 2023). This is the first water rocket competition held on a national scale, a key activity of the National STEM Festival 2023. The competition is for primary and secondary school students nationwide. Through launching water rockets, the teams will experience the construction, operation, and problem solving of a real rocket and satellite.

The competition consists of 2 groups: Primary Group: VN Rocket - Conquering the heights for students aged 8 - 10 (grades 3 - 5) and Secondary Group: VN Rocket - Challenging the limits for students aged 11 - 15 (grades 6 - 9). The teams participating in the grassroots round are organized by localities and are nominated by the localities to participate in the National Final round (each province is allowed to send a maximum of 5 teams per grade level) or register freely. The Organizing Committee will select the best teams through a rocket design report video to participate in the Final round. The "Fly into Space" competition accepts registrations from September 17 to 23. The Final round of the competition will be held during the Grand Festival on October 8 at Hanoi University of Science and Technology.

Dr. Dang Van Son, Co-Chair of the Organizing Committee of the National STEM Festival, Head of the Organizing Committee of the Competition, said that the "Flying into Space" water rocket competition, a STEM activity responding to the spirit of the Strategy for Research and Application of Space Technology. Through challenges and experiences, students will be inspired to explore more about the special, important and potential field of science. "Talents in space science and technology can be discovered through events and competitions, thereby nurturing and developing them in the future," he said.

Over the past 8 years of organization, the National STEM Day has actively spread, motivated, and encouraged the passion for learning, scientific research, and creativity for students.

>> See more: Images of students experiencing space exploration

Nhu Quynh

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