A couple weeks back, I wrote on the 46th anniversary of the ill-fated Apollo 13 flight that was saved by brave and intelligent NASA astronauts and ground crew. Two of the key members of the team have Wyoming roots. Casper, Wyoming native Bill Stoval played a critical role in regulating and supervising the return trajectory on the actual Apollo13 and was even honored by NASA with their prestigious Superior Achievement Award.

The amazing H. David “Dave” Reed earned his Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from The University of Wyoming in 1964. Then he went to work with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration / NASA.

Our quest to and focus on space and space travel is alive and vital to the advancement of humankind and though it may seem a far leap from The Cowboy State, there is help.

“Wyoming Space Grant sponsors educational and research programs in the state of Wyoming in support of NASA's missions.” according to the Wyoming Space Grant Consortium.

“Our programs include research fellowships for students at Wyoming's 2- and 4-year colleges, scholarship programs for community college students pursuing math and science careers, resources for Wyoming's K-12 teachers, and educational programs for the general public.”
Their site goes on to say:
Wyoming NASA Space Grant Goals include:

  • To promote science, math, engineering and technology education from elementary through university levels
  • To enhance space science/engineering research infrastructure at Wyoming’s community colleges and the University of Wyoming
  • To recruit women, underrepresented minorities and the disabled for careers in math, science, engineering and technology
  • To encourage interdisciplinary research in space science and engineering
  • To enhance public awareness of the benefits of space-related research and exploration

 

Wyoming NASA Space Grant Mission:

  • To promote a strong educational base in science, math, engineering, and technology from the elementary grades through the university levels.
  • To encourage cooperation and communication among industry, government, and educational institutions.
  • To encourage interdisciplinary training, research, and public service programs related to aerospace.
  • To recruit and train professionals, especially women and underrepresented minorities, for careers in STEM.
  • To develop state research infrastructure to enhance workforce and economic development of Wyoming.
  • To raise awareness of Space Grant programs and partnerships.

 

Find out more if you’re interested.

 

Contact Information:
Dept. of Physics and Astronomy

PS 210 and 208

Dept. 3905

1000 E. University Ave.

Laramie, WY 82071

 

Phone: 307-766-2862

Alt Phone: 307-766-2987

Fax: 307-766-2652

E-mail: wsgc@uwyo.edu

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