NNPS students link up with NASA's International Space Station

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Posted: May 21, 2024

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A group of Newport News Public Schools students watched a question and answer session with NASA astronaut Jeannette Epps on the International Space Station via video link on May 21.

Epps addressed queries ranging from scientific to practical as she answered questions students around the country pre-recorded and submitted for the event, which was simultaneously watched nationwide and co-sponsored locally by the Newport News chapter of The Links, Incorporated, and NASA Langley Research Center.

NNPS Youth Development hosted the event at the Administration Building.

Heritage High school 9th grade student Damani Gray's question was selected and his video was played, followed by Epps' answer. Gray asked about psychological exercises that astronauts might practice in space and Epps responded that astronauts go through quite a few cognitive exercises while living in the space station.

Clayton Turner, director of NASA Langley, attended along with representatives from both groups to engage students in conversations around their interest in space exploration and careers within it. He talked about the importance of choosing the right career and about his own path to becoming center director.

"We're here for you," Turner said."I am here recruiting."