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 Eighteen students from Honors Introduction to Physics and Chemistry and Pre-Engineering classes recently visited the NASA Glenn Research Center. Mary Zeller, Ph.D. ’61, Chief of the Instrumentation and Controls Division, and Dorothy Berlec Lukco ’75, an analytical chemist in the Sensors and Electronics Branch, led the way to various research labs at the renowned science complex. Engineers explained the specific focus of their area of research and its role in the space program. From peering deep down into the cavernous 510’ Zero Gravity Tower, to checking out the latest materials and machines for counteracting the negative effects of weightlessness on the human body, students were impressed by the complexity of equipment they saw firsthand. They gained greater appreciation for the phrase, ‘attention to detail’ after observing scientists making nano-electronic sensors using materials that can withstand extreme temperature and atmospheric changes, watching a new robot respond to remote control commands, and seeing the SLOPE lab where experiments are conducted to determine the most effective mode of transportation for surface travel on the moon. Students were given the VIP treatment and shown wonders wrought by human hands.
A few of their comments on the experience:
“I learned that each department of NASA affects every other one. –Autumn Walter ‘12
“I especially enjoyed the enthusiasm shown by the people who work at NASA.”—Melissa Brodsky ‘12
“The visit made me want to think about becoming an engineer, and I want to explore my occupation options more now.” – Carissa Mavec ‘12
“I especially enjoyed going to the robotics lab. I learned that work CAN be fun.” – Kayla Clint ‘12
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