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VISIT BY NADSA ASTRONAUT SANDRA MAGNUS Between 25 and 29 September, Adelaide had the opportunity to host the International Astronautical Congress, bringing astronauts, engineers, space agencies, universities, and space professionals from around the world to convene and give presentations. I had the privilege of briefly attending the IAC this year, seeing a presentation from Bill Nye, CEO of the Planetary Society and famous TV presenter, about the Society’s recent work with solar sails. The experience was truly one of a kind, and is something I will remember and treasure for many years to come. I was able to explore my passion and interest in astrophysics and space with likeminded people, developing my knowledge about solar sails and investigating joining the Society. Another opportunity which the congress presented was having NASA astronaut Sandra Magnus visit and talk to our girls about her journey to NASA and life on the International Space Station. I was honoured to be chosen to introduce her and talk to her personally about the IAC and working as an astronaut. I aspire to one day work on the International Space Station as Sandra did, and it was incredible to be able to meet someone who had lived out my dream. She
encouraged me to pursue Physics and Mathematicss at university, giving me inspiration and motivation to continue following my passions. Overall, attending the IAC and meeting Sandra was a highlight of my final year at Wilderness, and I am extremely grateful for being able to experience such once in a lifetime opportunities. I encourage all girls interested in astrophysics and the universe to continue studying Physics and Mathematics in their senior years at school and into tertiary studies, as one day a Wildy girl could be travelling to Mars and beyond. Sarah Damin
Astronaut Dr Sandra Magnus with Wilderness School students Sarah Damin and Lucy Davis. Photograph from The Messenger