Alicia Moreno, the Santa Marta Girl Who Will Travel to NASA

A student from Santa Marta will travel to Houston (USA), to NASA’s space center. Alicia Moreno, a student at Laura Vicuña School, is one of the 35 girls who have been recognized and awarded this academic experience. Alongside the other selected students, Alicia will dive into the world of science and delve into various activities at the American space agency. In these activities, she will learn about different processes taking place at the aerospace center while enjoying the company of various astronauts.

Selected from over 5,000 applicants

Alicia Moreno has been selected among 5,259 girls who applied to the call from the She Is foundation and the NASA Space Center, aimed at girls living in vulnerable situations in different countries. Alicia will be part of the third edition of Ella es astronauta (She Is an Astronaut) program.

For Reyes Isabel Ceballos, the school’s principal where Alicia studies, this is great news. “For us, it’s an honor that one of our students (…) has been chosen among the 5,259 girls. It’s pleasing to know that she passed all the filters and made it among the 35 who will travel to NASA,” expressed the principal. About Alicia, Ceballos said that “she is a very dedicated child and loves scientific reading.”

The experience in Houston will last for 5 days. To achieve this accomplishment, Alicia Moreno has prepared for 4 months with STEAM tools, focusing on science, art, mathematics, technology, and engineering. Alicia has expressed her desire to study computer science in the future.

That will be her next goal. For now, the 16-year-old student is preparing to enjoy the reality of being the first girl from Santa Marta to participate in a school project with the American space agency in Houston.

NASA’s Collaboration with Colombian Schools

NASA in Colombia has had a lasting impact on school participation and interest in science and space exploration. Through educational programs, collaborations, and inspiring events, the space agency has played a crucial role in fostering scientific and technological vocations among young Colombians. As NASA continues its missions and discoveries, its influence on education and student engagement in Colombia is likely to grow.

NASA’s Collaboration with Colombian Schools

NASA in Colombia has had a lasting impact on school participation and interest in science and space exploration. Through educational programs, collaborations, and inspiring events, the space agency has played a crucial role in fostering scientific and technological vocations among young Colombians. As NASA continues its missions and discoveries, its influence on education and student engagement in Colombia is likely to grow.

Collaborations in Colombia

Some of the most significant programs in which the US space agency has been involved include:

1. Seeds in Space: This program allows Colombian students to design and send experiments to the International Space Station to be conducted under microgravity conditions. The results of these experiments provide practical and valuable experience in scientific research.
2. Talks and Workshops: NASA experts have visited schools and universities in Colombia to give talks, workshops, and lectures. These direct interactions have allowed students to learn firsthand about advancements and challenges in space exploration.
3. Colombian Astronomy and Astronautics Olympiad: This competition brings together students passionate about astronomy and astronautics to test their knowledge through theoretical and practical challenges. These olympiads promote continuous learning and excellence in these disciplines.
4. Collaboration with Scientific Institutions: NASA has collaborated with universities and research centers in Colombia on joint research projects. These collaborations strengthen scientific ties between the two countries and provide unique learning opportunities for students.
5. Outreach at Educational Events: NASA has participated in science fairs, educational exhibitions, and education-related events in Colombia. These appearances allow students and the general public to engage with space science and technology interactively.