Texas: The Omani teams chosen for the NASA Space Apps Challenge 2024 are in the United States for their scientific trip, starting with a stop at NASA's Johnson Space Centre in Houston, Texas. This exchange programme is coordinated by the US Embassy in Oman in collaboration with the University of Technology and Applied Science.
The Omani delegation first visited Space Center Houston, one of the top scientific destinations in the United States.
The team visited Independence Plaza, which includes a full-size replica of the NASA space shuttle perched on the historical shuttle carrier aircraft, and inspected exhibition areas showcasing original spacecraft, such as the Apollo 17 command module.
The team learned about daily life aboard the International Space Station through interactive exhibits before viewing a cinematic presentation titled The Moonwalkers, which chronicles the history of the Apollo missions and connects them to the Artemis program.
The tour also included a stop at the historic Apollo Mission Control Center, where the group entered the renovated control room that directed the first human moon landing.
The crew also visited Mars displays, participated in virtual reality experiences, and learned about the history of spacesuits.
Dr. Fatima Nasser AlHarthy, the team leader, said that the trip to Johnson Space Center presented the team with a unique chance to learn about NASA's storied past and ambitious future. She highlighted that these encounters not only excite participants, but also cultivate a culture of scientific innovation among Omani youngsters.
The team is made up of exceptional students from various Omani educational institutions, including the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, the Military Technological College, and the German University of Technology in Oman.
This visit demonstrates a forward-looking vision to empower Omani youth by exposing them to worldwide experiences in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). It also boosts Oman's participation in international scientific forums, complementing the country's continuous efforts to establish a knowledge- and innovation-driven economy.
