Publication Sneak Peek

This segment features content from other AAEA publications. The Cutting Edge is a monthly publication available to AACTEA members. The following excerpt comes from the January 2024 issue.

NASA Eclipse Event Planned for Russellville

The much-anticipated 2024 total eclipse is fast approaching, and NASA’s planned live broadcast of the celestial event will be hosted by Russellville. A team of NASA experts from the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama have recently met with elected officials, industry leaders, and local educators to discuss educational outreach opportunities.

Due to the length of the eclipse totality in Russellville, NASA is planning to host part of the agency’s live television broadcast from the city, as well as conduct several scientific presentations and public outreach events for visitors, which are expected to number more than 100,000. Additional factors for selecting Russellville included access to a large university, and proximity to Little Rock to engage media outlets and key stakeholders representing industry and academia. Leveraging the eclipse to provide quality learning opportunities will be a valuable and unforgettable experience for all area students.

Upcoming STEM/STEAM Opportunities

Girls of Promise, an initiative of the Women's Foundation of Arkansas, exposes girls to opportunities and mentors in STEAM fields. This annual conference, scheduled for April 5th, is open to 8th grade girls who are interested in STEAM careers. Click HERE for more information including registration.

Skills to Launch is a 10-week scholarship-based, hands-on program that is designed to provide technical skills and soft skills training to adults 18 and older, in a variety of relevant STEM trades, such as: Industrial Operations, Carpentry, Production welding, HVAC, Information Technology, and Solar Panel Installation. Next classes start in January 2024. Click HERE for additional information.

eCYBERMISSION is a free, virtual STEM competition for students in 6th-9th grades. Each team needs: 2-4 students, an adult Team Advisor (can be an educator), and a community problem to explore or try to solve. Teams choose one of two paths: science (asking a question and/or exploring a problem) OR engineering (solving a problem). Click HERE to learn more and to register a team. Team registration closes February 28, 2024.