26.11.2019

The 5th graders create app about space threats

A group of 5th graders (Y5) raised a problem about threats coming from space and after investigating possibilities to solve it, they created an app to spread useful information to people about the theme.

In July this year, for example, an asteroid called “2019 OK” passed really close to Earth, at a distance of only 46,000km. Its size was estimated at 57 to 113 meters wide, so it could have caused great damage to our population. Asteroids are not the only threats coming from space. There are also solar flares, space debris, gamma-ray bursts, clouds of cosmic dust, and supernovas. The students realized, after researching about the subject and collecting data from the school community, that most people are unaware of this threats and were surprised with such information.

Then, the students chose the theme “Threats to Earth from Space” for the Exhibition, the conclusion of the PYP (Primary Years Programme), and strove to convince the governments to invest in technologies to protect the Earth. They researched what these threats are, what they can cause, and the responsibility to make the population aware.

After studying the theme deeply, and due to the alarming lack of knowledge, they concluded that a letter to the agency in charge is the most appropriate action. Then, they sent an email to “Agência Espacial Brasileira” (AEB) – with a message asking for help. They had the initiative to foresee and create an app with information about the threats, curiosities, interesting videos, a Q&A channel, as well as links to websites from AEB, NASA, and ESA.

The group and its mentor, teacher Aline Gomes, became surprised and pleased when the AEB Ombudsman replied to the email promptly.

AEB Response

Dear Aline and 5th graders of Beacon School,

We appreciate the registration of your claim and your interest in the activities related to the Brazilian Space Program. We are sure that the Program’s success is related to the recognition of its benefits by society.

In response to your email, please find below information provided by the Coordination of Satellites and Applications, the unit responsible for this theme:

In regards to your request, we inform you that AEB’s social communication team will be asked to perform an activity in which the application developed will be disclosed.

It is important to emphasize that, in 2019, two events approaching the themes of space debris and space environment were held at AEB. Indeed, these two events marked the beginning of the suggested awareness campaign.

Without further ado, please do not hesitate to contact AEB should you need any help.