There’s an opportunity for children across the country to take part in Mission X – a programme that uses the excitement of space exploration to encourage engagement with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), while promoting fitness and teamwork.
This year, John McFall, a member of the European Astronaut Reserve, has given his backing to the programme. Through astronaut-inspired activities, students complete physical and scientific challenges, that earn them steps to help Mission X Mascots, Luna, and Leo, walk 384,400 km, the distance from Earth to the Moon.
The challenge, which opens today (19 September), connects classrooms to the real-world science of space exploration and encourages curiosity, problem-solving, and collaboration.
“Mission X represents everything I believe about space exploration – that it's for everyone, regardless of their physical abilities. By supporting this challenge, I want to encourage young people to go the extra mile and show them that space truly is accessible to all.”
John McFall, a member of the ESA astronaut reserve
Last year, UK students collectively earned enough steps to support Luna and Leo to walk an impressive 29,128,000 steps – the equivalent of 21,846 km. This year, schools and groups across the country are aiming to walk even further, making their contribution to the global challenge bigger than ever.
Mission X: Train Like an Astronaut, is an international project by the European Space Agency (ESA) and the UK Space Agency delivered in the UK by STEM Learning and the European Space Education Resource Office (ESERO UK).
UK ESA astronaut Tim Peake, who flew to the International Space Station in 2015, has been a long-time supporter of Mission X. His Principia mission inspired millions of young people across the UK and continues to highlight how space can motivate the next generation of scientists and engineers.
“Mission X is a brilliant way to use the inspiring context of space to engage young people in exercise, healthy eating, and STEM activities. It’s just one of the ways that ESERO-UK creates partnerships between education and the space sector, sparking curiosity and open doors to exciting STEM careers.”
Tom Lyons, ESERO-UK Manager, at STEM Learning
“Mission X brings the excitement of UK space exploration into classrooms. It’s a fantastic way to engage children with STEM, encourage healthy lifestyles and show how space inspires innovation.”
Prof Anu Ojha, Director of Championing Space at the UK Space Agency
“Mission X reflects ESA’s commitment to supporting STEM education and inspiring young people across Europe. By connecting them with astronaut training, space science, and international collaboration, we nurture the skills and imagination needed not only for STEM Careers and the future of space exploration but also for active and informed citizenship.”
Monica Talevi, Head of STEM Education and Outreach Unit at ESA
If you would like to register your school or group to take part in Mission X: Train Like an Astronaut, please visit: https://trainlikeanastronaut.org/
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