NASA Astronauts to Engage New Jersey Students from International Space Station

NASA astronauts Chris Williams and Jessica Meir are scheduled to participate in an Earth-to-space call from the International Space Station (ISS), answering prerecorded STEM questions from students in New Jersey. The event, hosted by Newton Public Schools in Newton, New Jersey, is open to K-12 students and community members.

The call is set to begin at 12:05 a.m. EDT on Thursday, June 18. It will be streamed live on the agency’s Learn With NASA YouTube channel, offering a unique opportunity for students to connect directly with astronauts in orbit.

This initiative aims to enhance understanding of space exploration and raise awareness of careers within science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Media outlets interested in covering the event must RSVP by 5 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, June 17, by contacting Dr. Joseph Piccirillo.

For over 25 years, astronauts have continuously lived and worked aboard the International Space Station. During this time, they have tested new technologies, conducted scientific research, and developed skills essential for future missions further from Earth. Astronauts maintain constant communication with NASA’s Mission Control Center in Houston through SCaN’s (Space Communications and Navigation) Near Space Network.

Research and technological advancements on the space station provide benefits to people on Earth and establish a foundation for NASA's deeper space exploration initiatives. This includes the Artemis program, which plans to send astronauts to the Moon as a precursor to human exploration of Mars, aiming to inspire global discovery and innovation. (Source: NASA Breaking News)