As STEM Ambassadors, the University was pleased to be involved in MidSussex Science Week in May, highlighting STEM subjects amongst primary school children.
Dr Daniel Creed, Assistant Professor in Computer Science (School of Engineering and Informatics), and undergraduate students from the outreach team collaborated with Lindfield Primary Academy on a project focused on designing the next generation of space suits, with a particular emphasis on how 3D modelling is used in design processes. The 10-year-old students conducted research into factors such as materials, temperature, pressure, and the impact of micro-meteorites.
Working initially with 45 students, the group narrowed down to 12 students for the final project presentation. On presentation day, students from all schools taking part could visit the stand, learn about the project, and even go to the International Space Station via virtual reality headset. A highlight was using virtual reality and augmented reality to explore the designs—an experience the students found both educational and engaging. Whilst Lindfield Primary Academy did not win any prizes this year, the students gained a great deal from the experience, which was an opportunity for learning and engagement.
Dr Creed said that "This project was inspired by the recent news of Katy Perry going into space; a perfect springboard to engage students and spark their imagination. It was an incredible opportunity to explore the creative side of STEM through design and 3D modelling, where students learned how math brings virtual experiences to life through concepts like vertices, edges, and faces. They also conducted hands-on experiments to understand what space suits endure—from pressure challenges to protection against micrometeors—and how solar panels harness energy in space. It was all about making science tangible, inspiring, and fun."