The first space academy in Wales, developed in conjunction with NASA, is to open in Swansea. The academy will illustrate the history and future of space exploration through interactive displays.
Among these will be a model of a space shuttle, complete with simulator controls, a large-screen cinema and a series of working laboratories. “We want to try to entice young people,” said Marc Clement, chair of innovation at the University of Swansea, one of the partners in the project.
“Pupils can put together experiments which will be taken into space and find their way on to the international space station.”
The pound;10 million centre will open in 2004. It will be funded through a combination of private and public investment.
“It’s a fabulous opportunity for pupils,” said Karen Holland, assistant head of Dylan Thomas comprehensive in Swansea. “It will give them an awareness of space research, and of the careers available in the space industry.”
