Blast off at school space event sponsored by SSEN Transmission
The rocket blasts off from Machrihanish Airbase
It was all systems go for school pupils in Argyll when they took part in a recent space-themed STEM event sponsored by SSEN Transmission, which ended with a spectacular rocket launch.
The STARS-24 (Space, Thrust, Aerospace and Rocketry STEM 2024) event at MACC Business Park near Machrihanish Airbase was attended by children from local primary and secondary schools, who took part in a series of workshops and inputs from guest speakers who spoke about the importance of STEM subjects within the space industry.
It culminated with a rocket launch from the airbase, which is bidding to become a spaceport.
The rocket, which featured the SSEN Transmisson logo alongside badges designed by pupils to mark the event, soared 2,000ft before parachuting safely back to the launch site.
Rockets designed by pupils who took part in STARS-24
Tim Bailey, from MACC developments which helped run the event, said that it helped raise awareness of Scotland’s future role in the UK’s space industry.
“Five of the UK’s seven planned spaceports are in Scotland, including here at Machrihanish, so it is crucial to build a strong foundation in primary and secondary STEM education for the local community to take full advantage of these opportunities.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank SSEN Transmission and their Community Engagement Team for their support for this event, which has helped us take a giant leap forward in helping pupils understand the important future role the space industry will play in Scotland.”
Preparing the rocket for blast off
The day was made possible through a £2,725.00 donation by SSEN Transmission’s An Suidhe, Crarae, Craig Murrail, Crossaig, and Creag Dhubh substations, which together form the company’s Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Substation strategy. It is part of a £20bn investment to upgrade the electricity network in the north of Scotland to unlock the country’s renewable energy resources in support of national net zero and energy security targets.
Martha Smart, Community Liaison Manager for SSEN Transmission, added: “We have been fully supportive of STARS-24 from the beginning, providing funding for the rocket launch as well as accommodation for guest speakers and those who helped deliver the event.
“Our staff also attended to help demonstrate to pupils the role that science, technology, engineering and mathematics plays within SSEN Transmission, as well as the career opportunities available with us.
“It was great to see the children so enthusiastic and engaged in learning more about STEM, which is a key priority area for our business. I would like to thank all those involved for making the event so enjoyable.”