“The Smile of the Child” connects students with the International Space Station (ISS)

YouSmile student volunteers and students from Ionios School will speak live with an astronaut aboard the ISS as part of the ARISS programme

A unique experience of learning and inspiration, with children themselves at the heart of the initiative, is becoming a reality through a special activity organised by “The Smile of the Child.”

Student volunteers from YouSmile, the Organisation’s youth volunteering initiative, together with students from Ionios School, will have the opportunity to connect live with the International Space Station (ISS) and speak with an astronaut currently orbiting the Earth.

The communication will take place within the framework of ARISS – Amateur Radio on the International Space Station, an international programme that gives students around the world the opportunity to communicate directly with astronauts aboard the International Space Station.

During the live connection, the students will have the chance to ask their own questions and hear, in real time, the answers of someone who lives and works in space.

What is everyday life like hundreds of kilometres above Earth? What are the greatest challenges of a space mission? How does space affect the human body? What does it take to become an astronaut, and what can inspire a young person to pursue a path in science?

Through this unique, hands-on experience, “The Smile of the Child” gives students an active voice and creates a bridge between the younger generation, science, technology and space exploration.

For the Organisation, encouraging the active participation of children and young people, providing access to knowledge and inspiring them to ask questions, explore and dream have always been key priorities.

This time, their questions will travel even further.

From “The Smile of the Child”… all the way to the International Space Station.

This special communication will be broadcast live, giving children, parents, educators and everyone interested in science and space the opportunity to watch the conversation as it happens.

You can watch the live feed here