Deep Space to Deep Impact: embedding astronomy in the new Curriculum for Wales
Lead Research Organisation:
CARDIFF UNIVERSITY
Department Name: School of Physics and Astronomy
Abstract
Deep Space to Deep Impact (DS2DI) is a partnership between Cardiff University, National Museum of Wales, Open University Wales, Institute of Physics Wales, Cardiff Council, Techniquest, British Astronomical Association and the SME's AstroCymru, Thompson STEM Engagement (TSE) and First Light Optics (FLO).
It will work with professional and amateur astronomers and engage schools to gather data in support of scientific projects through the Comet Chasers programme. It will combine exciting 'deep space' observing opportunities (e.g. live solar imaging, planetary imaging, monitoring asteroids and comets using remote telescopes supporting pro-am research), with the 'deep impact' aspects of meteorites, impacts, craters, mass extinctions and climate catastrophe. DS2DI will engage school students and teachers in a thematic, skills-based educational programme covering ages 8-14 targeting and supporting the new Curriculum for Wales (CfW).
Taking a 'real time, real science, real scientists' approach that engages schools with access to observing facilities (Faulkes, NSO and new offerings from FLO, working with pro-am astronomers in the STFC-funded area of Solar system science), new bilingual classroom resources, supporting videos and teacher training, Deep Space 2 Deep Impact engages school students and teachers in a thematic, skills-based educational programme that directly supports engagement with the new CfW.
DS2DI brings together and updates existing resources we have previously produced (e.g. Mars-related resources in Mission2Mars, Down2Earth etc.), adapts them to fit the CfW, translates them into Welsh, trains teachers to use them and also opens up new opportunities to e.g. observing the Sun in real time using a live access facility in Spain available through FLO, or observing meteors with a pilot network of cameras based in schools, supporting the Global Meteor Network.
Whilst DS2DI targets schools in Wales in particular, classroom resources will be freely available to any UK school and can be adapted to match the curricula of other nations.
It will work with professional and amateur astronomers and engage schools to gather data in support of scientific projects through the Comet Chasers programme. It will combine exciting 'deep space' observing opportunities (e.g. live solar imaging, planetary imaging, monitoring asteroids and comets using remote telescopes supporting pro-am research), with the 'deep impact' aspects of meteorites, impacts, craters, mass extinctions and climate catastrophe. DS2DI will engage school students and teachers in a thematic, skills-based educational programme covering ages 8-14 targeting and supporting the new Curriculum for Wales (CfW).
Taking a 'real time, real science, real scientists' approach that engages schools with access to observing facilities (Faulkes, NSO and new offerings from FLO, working with pro-am astronomers in the STFC-funded area of Solar system science), new bilingual classroom resources, supporting videos and teacher training, Deep Space 2 Deep Impact engages school students and teachers in a thematic, skills-based educational programme that directly supports engagement with the new CfW.
DS2DI brings together and updates existing resources we have previously produced (e.g. Mars-related resources in Mission2Mars, Down2Earth etc.), adapts them to fit the CfW, translates them into Welsh, trains teachers to use them and also opens up new opportunities to e.g. observing the Sun in real time using a live access facility in Spain available through FLO, or observing meteors with a pilot network of cameras based in schools, supporting the Global Meteor Network.
Whilst DS2DI targets schools in Wales in particular, classroom resources will be freely available to any UK school and can be adapted to match the curricula of other nations.
Organisations
- CARDIFF UNIVERSITY (Lead Research Organisation)
- Amgueddfa Cymru (Collaboration)
- Swansea University (Collaboration)
- Institute of Physics (IOP) (Collaboration)
- OPEN UNIVERSITY (Collaboration)
- National Botanic Garden of Wales (Collaboration)
- AstroCymru (Collaboration)
- 4wardFutures (Collaboration)
- Cardiff Council (Project Partner)
- The Open University (Project Partner)
- Institute of Physics (Project Partner)
- National Museum Wales (Project Partner)
| Description | 4wardFutures |
| Organisation | 4wardFutures |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Charity/Non Profit |
| PI Contribution | Roche has worked with the 4wardFutures team to assist onb some of their existing SFC Spark award projects and has run 2 schools workshops in Cardiff for their 'Blue skies to green Earth' project, with another workshop still to happen. |
| Collaborator Contribution | We have developed a virtual Mars Base environment that will eventually host the DS2DI project resources. Currently it is a testbed for some DS2DI ideas, like the Virtual Meteorite Gallery, where an 'escape room'-type environment has been created to encourage students to engage with 3D-scanned meteorites and screen-based information. |
| Impact | Virtual 'Mars Base' that will eventually host the DS2DI project resources. Currently it is a testbed for some DS2DI ideas, like the Virtual Meteorite Gallery, where an 'escape room'-type environment has been created to encourage students to engage with 3D-scanned meteorites and screen-based information. |
| Start Year | 2025 |
| Description | AstroCymru Ltd |
| Organisation | AstroCymru |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Private |
| PI Contribution | Schools talks and workshops |
| Collaborator Contribution | Schools talks and workshops for 'Space Art' and 'Stardust Hunters' |
| Impact | Development of new schools' workshops |
| Start Year | 2013 |
| Description | IOP Wales |
| Organisation | Institute of Physics (IOP) |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Learned Society |
| PI Contribution | Partner on STFC Nucleus award |
| Collaborator Contribution | Assistance with promoting project to physics teachers and technicians across Wales |
| Impact | Attendance at IOP meetings, conferences and teacher training events. |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | National Botanic Gardens of Wales |
| Organisation | National Botanic Garden of Wales |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Charity/Non Profit |
| PI Contribution | NBGOW have hosted events as part of the DS2DI project |
| Collaborator Contribution | Provided venue and audiences for public events |
| Impact | Public events (e.g. Girl Guides of Wales event) hosted at NBGOW |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | National Museum of Wales |
| Organisation | Amgueddfa Cymru |
| Department | National Museum Wales |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Public |
| PI Contribution | Collaboration on Down2Earth project (Dr. Jana Horak) |
| Collaborator Contribution | Access to meteorite specimens and expertise |
| Impact | Various grant awards since D2E started in 2009 |
| Start Year | 2009 |
| Description | Open University (Antarctic micrometeorites research) |
| Organisation | Open University |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Linking the OU research (led by Dr. Suttle) with the schools and public outreach (e.g. schools workshops led by Emma Wride/AstroCymru; public exhibition at Oriel Science, Swansea and Stardust Hunters project), plans to develop some new classroom resources connected with micrometeorites; developing a pilot network of 'meteor cameras' to be installed in schools across Wales, connecting the study of micrometeorites with meteors. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Dr. Martin Suttle (OU) has contributed advice and expertise, and a number of Antarctic micrometeorite-rich samples that will be used in an exhibit at Oriel Science (Swansea) and in schools workshops (Stardust Hunters). |
| Impact | Materials from the OU will be used in an updated micrometeorite ('Stardust hunting') public exhibit at the new Priel Science centre in Swansea in partnership with Dr. Sarah Roberts (Swansea Uni) |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | Oriel Science |
| Organisation | Swansea University |
| Department | Oriel Science |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | DS2DI project sponsors an exhibit at Oriel Science using Open Uni micrometeorite samples |
| Collaborator Contribution | Disdplay materials, talks, teacher training events held at Oriel Science |
| Impact | Severel events held at Oriel Science by Dr. Sarah Roberts, including public and school talks and teacher training events |
| Start Year | 2025 |
| Description | Stardust Hunters, Swansea Uni |
| Organisation | Swansea University |
| Department | Department of Physics |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Development and delivery of new micrometeorite hunting workshops |
| Collaborator Contribution | Development and delivery of new micrometeorite hunting workshops |
| Impact | New Stardust Hunters workshops for schools |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | 'Be a scientist' (Cardiff University) |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | An 'open day' event held at Cardiff Universuty Sbarc building. DS2DI had a stand with meteorites and dinosaur fossils, and a demo section using infrared cameras to talk about how astronomers in Cardiff use IR observations to study star formation. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Comet Chasers at Ysgol Gynradd Llanfairpwll, Angelsey |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A workshop about the science of comets, asteroids, meteorites and meteors, aimed at KS2 pupils and delivered in the Welsh language. Pupils undertake a variety of 'hands on' experiments based on cometary science; handle meteorite and dinosaur fossil specimens; create 'impact craters' both physically and using the online Down2Earth impact calculator and learn about links between impact/mass extinction events and life on Earth. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Comet Chasers talk and display stand |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Talk about Comet Chasers project and display stand at the Heads of the Valleys Astronomy Show |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Comet Chasers workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Workshop about the science of comets including meteors, meteorites and impacts (Down2Earth). Planning observations using The Schools Observatory and DS2DI projects. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Comet Chasers workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Workshop about the science of comets including meteors, meteorites and impacts (Down2Earth). Planning observations using The Schools Observatory and DS2DI projects. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Comet Chasers workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Workshop about the science of comets including meteors, meteorites and impacts (Down2Earth). Planning observations using The Schools Observatory and DS2DI projects. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Comet Chasers workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Workshop about the science of comets including meteors, meteorites and impacts (Down2Earth). Planning observations using The Schools Observatory and DS2DI projects. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Comet Chasers workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Workshop about the science of comets including meteors, meteorites and impacts (Down2Earth). Planning observations using The Schools Observatory and DS2DI projects. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Comet Chasers workshop at Ysgol Gynradd Llanfechell, Angelsey |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A workshop about the science of comets, asteroids, meteorites and meteors, aimed at KS2 pupils and delivered in the Welsh language. Pupils undertake a variety of 'hands on' experiments based on cometary science; handle meteorite and dinosaur fossil specimens; create 'impact craters' both physically and using the online Down2Earth impact calculator and learn about links between impact/mass extinction events and life on Earth. This workshop was again with another very small, rural Welsh medium primary school in Angelsey. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Comet Chasers workshop at Ysgol Gynradd Parc y Bont, Angelsey |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A workshop about the science of comets, asteroids, meteorites and meteors, aimed at KS2 pupils and delivered in the Welsh language. Pupils undertake a variety of 'hands on' experiments based on cometary science; handle meteorite and dinosaur fossil specimens; create 'impact craters' both physically and using the online Down2Earth impact calculator and learn about links between impact/mass extinction events and life on Earth. Again, this was a small, rural Welsh-edium school in a deprived area of Angelsey. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Comet Chasers workshop at Ysgolion Santes Dwynwen, Angelsey |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A workshop about the science of comets, asteroids, meteorites and meteors, aimed at KS2 pupils and delivered in the Welsh language. Pupils undertake a variety of 'hands on' experiments based on cometary science; handle meteorite and dinosaur fossil specimens; create 'impact craters' both physically and using the online Down2Earth impact calculator, and learn about links between impact/mass extinction events and life on Earth. Two visits were made to this particular school, 20/02/2024 and 27/11/2024, which is a small school in a very deprived area of Angelsey. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | D2E loan box sent to school (East Craigs primary school, Dundee) |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | D2E loan box sent to school |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | D2E loan box sent to school (St Peters PS, Edinburgh) |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | D2E loan box sent to school (St Peters PS, Edinburgh) |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | D2E loan box sent to school (St Peters PS, Edinburgh) |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | D2E loan box sent to school (St Peters PS, Edinburgh) |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | D2E loan box sent to schools in Northern Ireland |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | D2E loan boxes sent out to 19 schools in Northern Ireland between Sept and Dec 2025 |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | D2E loan box sent to schools in Scotland |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | D2E loan boxes were sent out to schools in and around Edinburgh, and as far away as Glasgow and Dundee |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | DS2DI at Space to Learn event (Uni South Wales) |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Talk about collisions in space to AS level audience from across South Wales, covering everything from the formation of the Solar System, to how crashing asteroids and comets could have kickstarted life on Earth, with D2E loan boxes. Will be repeated in 2025 at request of USW organisers. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://nationalspaceacademy.org/about-us/news/space-to-learn-camps-launch-in-south-wales/ |
| Description | DS2DI talk at IOP Brecon conference |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | Talk about DS2DI project to IOP Wales conference, and a stand with IR cameras and meteorites. Lots of interest in the overall plans for the project and interest in borrowing IRcams and D2E loan boxes. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://www.stem.org.uk/cpd/539921/welsh-physics-teachers-conference-brecon-2024 |
| Description | DS2DI teacher CPD |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 3.5 hour CPD event for STEM teachers from across Wales, held at Technqiuest science centre in Cardiff (supported by funding from Welsh Government for teacher T&S) |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Down2Earth loan box (North Berwick High School, Edinburgh) |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Down2Earth loan box sent to school |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | Down2Earth loan box sent to school (North Berwick High School, Edinburgh) |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Down2Earth loan box sent to school |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | Heolddu Learning Pathways Centre Stardust Hunters |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Other audiences |
| Results and Impact | 10 pupils attended at an Out of Mainstream education group. 5 pupils said their space knowledge improved. 4 pupils said their investigative skills have improved. 4 pupils enjoyed all aspects of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2026 |
| URL | https://x.com/astrocymru/status/2016432691235754465 |
| Description | IR qworkshop at Space Academy Cardiff |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Infrared workshop aimed at KS3 audience, covering the EMS and how IR is used in astronomy, linking to the new 'Curriculum for Wales'. Hands on use of IR cameras, highlighting links to physics (light) and chemistry (materials science) and practical applications of IR in everyday life. This session was a 2-hour workshop as part of the 5-day Space Academy event run by Roche at Cardiff Uni, funded by Cardiff Council. Will be repeated in 2025. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://www.tiktok.com/@shortphysics/video/7309811234956709153 |
| Description | Impacts from Space talks |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Talks based on the Down2Earth project but also covering aspects of Comet Chasers and linking to STFC research on asteroids and comets. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Infrared Workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A series of KS4 workshops based around multiwavelength astronomy, and using observations in the IR region in particular (linking to uses of IR in STFC-funded astronomy). Two groups of 30 KS3 students and one group of SEN pupils. Discussions after each session indicated a clear increase in related subject areas, particularly with the SEN group who enjoyed the 'hands on' aspects of thgeir sesssion (using IR cameras). |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Infrared Workshop at Brynteg Comprehensive |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | IR camera workshops |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | Infrared Workshop at Cardiff Muslim Primary School |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Infrared workshops aimed at KS2 audiences, covering the basics of what light is and how IR is used in astronomy, linking to the new 'Curriculum for Wales'. Hands on use of IR cameras, highlighting practical applications of IR in everyday life. This session covered the whole of KS2 in this school, and included meteorite handling (Down2Earth project) as well as the IR workshop. The children were very enthusiastic and the activities generated lots of discussion amongst them, and requests from teachers to borrow IR cameras and associated resources, and for a return visit in 2025. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Infrared Workshop at Howardian Primary School |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 1-hour workshop about light and specifically the uses of infared light and detectors in astronomy; practical demonstrations and actvities using IR cameras |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | Infrared Workshops at Primary Schools in Wales |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Over 70 workshops were run at schools in Wales, primaril;y in South Wales but also including some in Angelsey (in Welsh language) |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | Infrared Workshops for Science Week@Queens |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Infrared workshops aimed at KS3 audiences, covering the EMS and how IR is used in astronomy, linking to the new 'Curriculum for Wales'. Hands on use of IR cameras, highlighting links to physics (light) and chemistry (materials science) and practical applications of IR in everyday life. Generated lots of discussion amongst participants and requests from teachers to borrow IR cameras and associated resources. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | KS2 IR workshops |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Infrared workshops aimed at KS2 audiences, covering the basics of what light is and how IR is used in astronomy, linking to the new 'Curriculum for Wales'. Hands on use of IR cameras, highlighting practical applications of IR in everyday life. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | KS2 IR workshops @ 'One Planet Primary Day' |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Infrared workshops aimed at KS2 audiences, covering the basics of what light is and how IR is used in astronomy, linking to the new 'Curriculum for Wales'. Hands on use of IR cameras, highlighting practical applications of IR in everyday life. Generated lots of discussion amongst participants and requests from teachers to borrow IR cameras and associated resources. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | KS2 Meteorites and IR workshop at Willowbrook Primary |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Infrared and meteorite (Down2Earth) workshops aimed at KS2 audiences, linking to the new 'Curriculum for Wales'. Hands on use of IR cameras, highlighting practical applications of IR in everyday life. Handling of meteorite specimens from STFC-funded loan boxes. Generated lots of discussion amongst participants, and lots of questions after each session. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | KS3 IR workshop (Whitchurch High School) |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Infrared workshops aimed at KS3 audiences, covering the EMS and how IR is used in astronomy, linking to the new 'Curriculum for Wales'. Hands on use of IR cameras, highlighting links to physics (light) and chemistry (materials science) and practical applications of IR in everyday life. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | KS3 IR workshops @ 'Physics at Christmas' event |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Infrared workshops aimed at KS3 audiences, covering the EMS and how IR is used in astronomy, linking to the new 'Curriculum for Wales'. Hands on use of IR cameras, highlighting links to physics (light) and chemistry (materials science) and practical applications of IR in everyday life. Generated lots of discussion amongst participants and requests from teachers to borrow IR cameras and associated resources. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | KS3 IR workshops @ Teentech |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Infrared workshops aimed at KS2 and KS3 audiences, covering the EMS and how IR is used in astronomy, linking to the new 'Curriculum for Wales'. Hands on use of IR cameras, highlighting links to physics (light) and chemistry (materials science) and practical applications of IR in everyday life. We ran 4 sessions at this annual event that attracts primary and secondary schools from across south Wales. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://teentech.com/festivals/cardiff/ |
| Description | KS3 Meteorites and IR workshop @So what STEM event |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Infrared and meteorite (Down2Earth) workshops aimed at KS3 audiences, covering the EMS and how IR is used in astronomy, linking to the new 'Curriculum for Wales'. Hands on use of IR cameras, highlighting links to physics (light) and chemistry (materials science) and practical applications of IR in everyday life. Meteorite and fossil handling activities, and investigations using magnets, sketching/describing samples etc. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Living in Space workshop (Coed Glas) |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A talk and workshops about living in space, including meteorites and IR cameras |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | Meteorites and IR @'Passport to the City' graduation |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Display stand with Infrared and meteorite (Down2Earth) demos aimed at KS2 audiences and their families, as part of an event organised by Cardiff City Council (and attended by local politicians and University senior management). |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Meteorites and IR @Caer Heritage Centre open day |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Public event held outdoors at the site of a Roman fort and associated archaeological dig site led by Cardiff Uni. Infrared and meteorite (Down2Earth) demos aimed at a public (mainly families) audience. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Meteorites and IR workshop@Fostering Network event |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Workshops and demos run as part of a Fostering Network day at Cardiff University. Hands on use of IR cameras, highlighting links to physics (light) and chemistry (materials science) and practical applications of IR in everyday life. Generated lots of discussion amongst participants, who had come from all over Wales and were all fostered children. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Mission 2Mars and IR @Gwaunfarren Primary |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Talk about 'Mission to Mars' to all of Y6, followed by IR workshops to each Y6 class individually. Infrared workshops aimed at KS2 audiences, covering the basics of what light is and how IR is used in astronomy, linking to the new 'Curriculum for Wales'. Hands on use of IR cameras, highlighting practical applications of IR in everyday life. Generated lots of discussion amongst participants and requests from teachers to borrow IR cameras and associated resources. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Mission2Mars talk |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Two online presentations to primary schools in Wales, organised by Techniquest, on the theme of 'Missions to Mars' and linking to our online resources (https://mission2mars.net/) |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Museum After Dark |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Museum After Dark is a major STEM event organised by Cardiff University as part of the annual 'Cardiff Science Festival', which attracts around 1,200-1,500 people (primarily families with young children) to a 3-hour long evening opening of the National Museum. Groups from within the university have stands displaying demos, materials, resources etc. DS2SI had a large stand displaying meteorites and dinosaur fossils |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | School Visit, Fochriw Primary, KS2 Stardust Hunters workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre evaluation showed that: 100% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 58% have never been to a science centre or museum. 88% of pupils said they would like to find out more about science and 50% would like to work in a STEM role. Post workshop evaluations found that: 92% of pupils were inspired by the workshop and 96% thought that STEM was relative in their lives. 38% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM and 50% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://x.com/fcwpa/status/1854536624626938108 |
| Description | School visit Heolddu Learning Pathways Centre Stardust Hunters Workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre evaluation showed that: 100% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 100% have never been to a science centre or museum. 75% of pupils said they would like to find out more about science and 33% would like to work in a STEM role. Post workshop evaluations found that: 75% of pupils were inspired by the workshop and 63% thought that STEM was relative in their lives. 33% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM and 50% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | School visit to Sparc Building Cardiff University, Christ The King, KS2 Stardust Hunting workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Post workshop evaluations found that: 93% of pupils were inspired by the workshop and 80% thought that STEM was relative in their lives. 30% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM and 36% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/paul.roche.524/posts/pfbid025Egv3hAati1Af28jvPfppMJ9C1Jp3g2cjh58GoPNRmLZK4p... |
| Description | School visit, Abercerdin Primary School , Stardust Hunters workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. 5 teachers and 50 pupils ages 5 - 11 years old took part in Stardust Hunting workshop in an after school activity. This was a pilot workshop to ascertain what worked well and what changes needed to be implemented going forward. This was the first Stardust Hunting workshop of the project. Evaluations with pupils were verbal and discussions with teachers after workshop proved that the activities in the workshop worked well and were suitable for all ages. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://x.com/astrocymru/status/1760688862693818846 |
| Description | School visit, Cornelli Primary School, KS2 Stardust Hunting workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre evaluation showed that: 92% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 40% have never been to a science centre or museum. 76% of pupils said they would like to find out more about science and 20% would like to work in a STEM role. Post workshop evaluations found that: 96% of pupils were inspired by the workshop and 68% thought that STEM was relative in their lives. 44% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM and 56% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | School visit, Crickhowell Primary School, KS2 Space/Art Deep Space 2 Deep Impact workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation was given on topics such as formation of the solar system, Asteroid belt objects, meteors, types of meteorites and various impact craters around the world including the Chicxulub impactor that caused the mass extinction of the dinosaurs. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. This is followed by various samples of meteorites and dinosaur fossils being described and handed around the class for each pupil to examine. Pupils are then given a choice of coloured card and various art and craft materials such as coloured tissue paper and old astronomy magazines that pupils cut images from. Pupils then create a collage of their choice based on the topics from the presentation. After completion of artwork, pupils are given the opportunity to discuss and showcase their work. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre-evaluation showed that: 94% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 34% of pupils have never been to a science centre or museum. 82% of pupils would like to find out more about science and 26% would like to work in a STEM role. Post evaluations found that: 97% of pupils were inspired by the workshop, 88% thought that STEM was relative in their lives and 32% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM. 53% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://x.com/astrocymru/status/1767635366217974141 |
| Description | School visit, Crickhowell Primary School, KS2 Stardust Hunting workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre evaluation showed that: 97% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 48% have never been to a science centre or museum. 90% of pupils said they would like to find out more about science and 13% would like to work in a STEM role. Post workshop evaluations found that 100% of pupils were inspired by the workshop and 94% thought that STEM was relative in their lives. 16% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM and 48% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://x.com/PrimaryCp/status/1767577262612746393 |
| Description | School visit, GeorgetownPrimary School, KS2 Stardust Hunting workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre evaluation showed that: 94% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 73% have never been to a science centre or museum. 76% of pupils said they would like to find out more about science and 10% would like to work in a STEM role. Post workshop evaluations found that: 96% of pupils were inspired by the workshop and 55% thought that STEM was relative in their lives. 24% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM and 41% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | School visit, Hywel Dda Primary Stardust Hunters |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 45 pupils attended the Stardust Hunters workshop. 40 pupils said their space knowledge has improved. 37 pupils said their investigation skills have improved. 37 pupils said they enjoyed all aspects of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | School visit, Llangynidr Primary, KS2 Stardust Hunting workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre evaluation showed that: 93% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 40% have never been to a science centre or museum. 88% of pupils said they would like to find out more about science and 17% would like to work in a STEM role. Post workshop evaluations found that: 95% of pupils were inspired by the workshop and 76% thought that STEM was relative in their lives. 19% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM and 50% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | School visit, Llanharri Primary, KS2 Stardust Hunting workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre evaluation showed that: 89% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 28% have never been to a science centre or museum. 94% of pupils said they would like to find out more about science and 22% would like to work in a STEM role. Post workshop evaluations found that: 89% of pupils were inspired by the workshop and 89% thought that STEM was relative in their lives. 61% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM and 61% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://x.com/DGwennol/status/1786390709261447463 |
| Description | School visit, Llwynypia Primary School , Stardust Hunters workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre evaluation showed that: 100% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 46% have never been to a science centre or museum. 77% of pupils said they would like to find out more about science and 12% would like to work in a STEM role. Post workshop evaluations found that: 96% of pupils were inspired by the workshop and 85% thought that STEM was relative in their lives. 35% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM and 35% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | http://acebook.com/emma.wride/posts/pfbid02czWwcT8a1EKqbQRCBVkjQbBLJSggj91DP92SVDxKtJ4doSPA1k9LHyXN8... |
| Description | School visit, Maesglas Primary School, KS2 Stardust Hunting workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre-evaluation showed that: 100% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 53% of pupils have never been to a science centre or museum. 73% of pupils would like to find out more about science and 23% would like to work in a STEM role. Post evaluations found that: 50% of pupils were inspired by the workshop, 61% thought that STEM was relative in their lives and 36% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM. 47% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://x.com/astrocymru/status/1788572178801139763 |
| Description | School visit, Maesglas Primary Years 4,5 & 6 Space/Art DS2DI workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation was given on topics such as formation of the solar system, Asteroid belt objects, meteors, types of meteorites and various impact craters around the world including the Chicxulub impactor that caused the mass extinction of the dinosaurs. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. This is followed by various samples of meteorites and dinosaur fossils being described and handed around the class for each pupil to examine. Pupils are then given a choice of coloured card and various art and craft materials such as coloured tissue paper and old astronomy magazines that pupils cut images from. Pupils then create a collage of their choice based on the topics from the presentation. After completion of artwork, pupils are given the opportunity to discuss and showcase their work. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre-evaluation showed that: 100% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 53% of pupils have never been to a science centre or museum. 73% of pupils would like to find out more about science and 23% would like to work in a STEM role. Post evaluations found that: 77% of pupils were inspired by the workshop, 64% thought that STEM was relative in their lives and 30% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM. 39% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://x.com/astrocymru/status/1782380021069292004 |
| Description | School visit, Moorland Primary, KS2 Space/Art Deep Space 2 Deep Impact workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation was given on topics such as formation of the solar system, Asteroid belt objects, meteors, types of meteorites and various impact craters around the world including the Chicxulub impactor that caused the mass extinction of the dinosaurs. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. This is followed by various samples of meteorites and dinosaur fossils being described and handed around the class for each pupil to examine. Pupils are then given a choice of coloured card and various art and craft materials such as coloured tissue paper and old astronomy magazines that pupils cut images from. Pupils then create a collage of their choice based on the topics from the presentation. After completion of artwork, pupils are given the opportunity to discuss and showcase their work. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre-evaluation showed that: 88% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 53% of pupils have never been to a science centre or museum. 75% of pupils would like to find out more about science and 5% would like to work in a STEM role. Post evaluations found that: 97% of pupils were inspired by the workshop, 69% thought that STEM was relative in their lives and 53% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM. 56% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | School visit, Penderyn Primary School, KS2 Stardust Hunting workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre evaluation showed that: 90% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 62% have never been to a science centre or museum. 93% of pupils said they would like to find out more about science and 48% would like to work in a STEM role. Post workshop evaluations found that: 97% of pupils were inspired by the workshop and 97% thought that STEM was relative in their lives. 52% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM and 63% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid04csMxSWfpZkW41MZuPPSpkdtKYxAZxVfJ2ZSCESdYA76... |
| Description | School visit, Penrhys Primary School, KS2 Stardust Hunting workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre evaluation showed that: 95% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 63% have never been to a science centre or museum. 63% of pupils said they would like to find out more about science and 16% would like to work in a STEM role. Post workshop evaluations found that: 89% of pupils were inspired by the workshop and 79% thought that STEM was relative in their lives. 16% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM and 74% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | School visit, Sea View Primary School, KS2 Stardust Hunting workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre evaluation showed that: 93% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 78% have never been to a science centre or museum. 81% of pupils said they would like to find out more about science and 11% would like to work in a STEM role. Post workshop evaluations found that: 70% of pupils were inspired by the workshop and 52% thought that STEM was relative in their lives. 22% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM and 30% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://x.com/SeaViewPrimary/status/1798058500813406321 |
| Description | School visit, Stebonheath Primary, KS2 Stardust Hunting workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre evaluation showed that: 96% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 50% have never been to a science centre or museum. 69% of pupils said they would like to find out more about science and 27% would like to work in a STEM role. Post workshop evaluations found that: 100% of pupils were inspired by the workshop and 85% thought that STEM was relative in their lives. 38% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM and 46% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | School visit, Tenby Primary School, KS2 Stardust Hunting workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Post workshop evaluations found that: 84% of pupils were inspired by the workshop and 70% thought that STEM was relative in their lives. 35% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM and 41% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/emma.wride/posts/pfbid02q1H3uULh1GgY3Kg8qSzH4JSkWzeFNiqaWR1i6scC8j4sygNbWpX... |
| Description | School visit, Tenby Primary, KS2 Space/Art Deep Space 2 Deep Impact workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation was given on topics such as formation of the solar system, Asteroid belt objects, meteors, types of meteorites and various impact craters around the world including the Chicxulub impactor that caused the mass extinction of the dinosaurs. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. This is followed by various samples of meteorites and dinosaur fossils being described and handed around the class for each pupil to examine. Pupils are then given a choice of coloured card and various art and craft materials such as coloured tissue paper and old astronomy magazines that pupils cut images from. Pupils then create a collage of their choice based on the topics from the presentation. After completion of artwork, pupils are given the opportunity to discuss and showcase their work. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre-evaluation showed that: 94% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 28% of pupils have never been to a science centre or museum. 83% of pupils would like to find out more about science and 17% would like to work in a STEM role. Post evaluations found that: 97% of pupils were inspired by the workshop, 92% thought that STEM was relative in their lives and 19% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM. 42% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | School visit, Trerobart Primary, KS2 Space/Art Deep Space 2 Deep Impact workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation was given on topics such as formation of the solar system, Asteroid belt objects, meteors, types of meteorites and various impact craters around the world including the Chicxulub impactor that caused the mass extinction of the dinosaurs. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. This is followed by various samples of meteorites and dinosaur fossils being described and handed around the class for each pupil to examine. Pupils are then given a choice of coloured card and various art and craft materials such as coloured tissue paper and old astronomy magazines that pupils cut images from. Pupils then create a collage of their choice based on the topics from the presentation. After completion of artwork, pupils are given the opportunity to discuss and showcase their work. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre-evaluation showed that: 96% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 35% of pupils have never been to a science centre or museum. 76% of pupils would like to find out more about science and 8% would like to work in a STEM role. Post evaluations found that: 84% of pupils were inspired by the workshop, 65% thought that STEM was relative in their lives and 37% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM. 53% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | School visit, Trerobart Primary, KS2 Stardust Hunting workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre-evaluation showed that: 96% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 35% of pupils have never been to a science centre or museum. 76% of pupils would like to find out more about science and 8% would like to work in a STEM role. Post workshop evaluations found that: 47% of pupils were inspired by the workshop and 65% thought that STEM was relative in their lives. 47% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | School visit, Tynyrheol Primary KS2 Stardust Hunting workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Post workshop evaluations found that: 97% of pupils were inspired by the workshop and 66% thought that STEM was relative in their lives. 57% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM and 45% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | School visit, Tynyrheol Primary, KS2 Space/Art Deep Space 2 Deep Impact workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation was given on topics such as formation of the solar system, Asteroid belt objects, meteors, types of meteorites and various impact craters around the world including the Chicxulub impactor that caused the mass extinction of the dinosaurs. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. This is followed by various samples of meteorites and dinosaur fossils being described and handed around the class for each pupil to examine. Pupils are then given a choice of coloured card and various art and craft materials such as coloured tissue paper and old astronomy magazines that pupils cut images from. Pupils then create a collage of their choice based on the topics from the presentation. After completion of artwork, pupils are given the opportunity to discuss and showcase their work. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre-evaluation showed that: 76% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 32% of pupils have never been to a science centre or museum. 84% of pupils would like to find out more about science and 36% would like to work in a STEM role. Post evaluations found that: 88% of pupils were inspired by the workshop, 68% thought that STEM was relative in their lives and 40% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM. 48% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | School visit, Williamstown Primary School, KS2 Stardust Hunting workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre-evaluation showed that: 100% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 29% of pupils have never been to a science centre or museum. 83% of pupils would like to find out more about science and 8% would like to work in a STEM role. Post evaluations found that: 100% of pupils were inspired by the workshop, 92% thought that STEM was relative in their lives and 21% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM and 71% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | School visit, Williamstown Primary, KS2 Space/Art Deep Space 2 Deep Impact workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation was given on topics such as formation of the solar system, Asteroid belt objects, meteors, types of meteorites and various impact craters around the world including the Chicxulub impactor that caused the mass extinction of the dinosaurs. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. This is followed by various samples of meteorites and dinosaur fossils being described and handed around the class for each pupil to examine. Pupils are then given a choice of coloured card and various art and craft materials such as coloured tissue paper and old astronomy magazines that pupils cut images from. Pupils then create a collage of their choice based on the topics from the presentation. After completion of artwork, pupils are given the opportunity to discuss and showcase their work. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre-evaluation showed that: 100% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 29% of pupils have never been to a science centre or museum. 83% of pupils would like to find out more about science and 8% would like to work in a STEM role. Post evaluations found that: 100% of pupils were inspired by the workshop, 92% thought that STEM was relative in their lives and 21% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM and 71% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | School visit, Windsor Clive Primary, KS2 Stardust Hunters workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre evaluation showed that: 100% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 54% have never been to a science centre or museum. 40% of pupils said they would like to find out more about science and 10% would like to work in a STEM role. Post workshop evaluations found that: 52% of pupils were inspired by the workshop and 40% thought that STEM was relative in their lives. 10% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM and 10% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | School visit, YGG Llyn Y Forwen, KS2 Space/Art Deep Space 2 Deep Impact workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation was given on topics such as formation of the solar system, Asteroid belt objects, meteors, types of meteorites and various impact craters around the world including the Chicxulub impactor that caused the mass extinction of the dinosaurs. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. This is followed by various samples of meteorites and dinosaur fossils being described and handed around the class for each pupil to examine. Pupils are then given a choice of coloured card and various art and craft materials such as coloured tissue paper and old astronomy magazines that pupils cut images from. Pupils then create a collage of their choice based on the topics from the presentation. After completion of artwork, pupils are given the opportunity to discuss and showcase their work. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre-evaluation showed that: 90% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 50% of pupils have never been to a science centre or museum. 90% of pupils would like to find out more about science and 35% would like to work in a STEM role. Post evaluations found that: 90% of pupils were inspired by the workshop, 80% thought that STEM was relative in their lives and 50% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM. 60% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. Teachers commented how interesting the workshop subject is. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://x.com/astrocymru/status/1765085828647358863 |
| Description | School visit, YGG Llyn Y Forwen, KS2 Stardust Hunting workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre-evaluation showed that: 90% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 50% of pupils have never been to a science centre or museum. 90% of pupils would like to find out more about science and 35% would like to work in a STEM role. Post workshop evaluations found that: 88% of pupils were inspired by the workshop and 94% thought that STEM was relative in their lives. 13% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM Teachers and pupils are very excited to find out the results of their samples. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://x.com/astrocymru/status/1779964392777392283 |
| Description | School visit, YGG Tindeunaw, KS2 Stardust Hunting workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Pre evaluation showed that: 79% of pupils do not know any scientist role models and 45% have never been to a science centre or museum. 62% of pupils said they would like to find out more about science and 14% would like to work in a STEM role. Post workshop evaluations found that: 100% of pupils were inspired by the workshop and 55% thought that STEM was relative in their lives. 5% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM and 62% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | School visit, YGG Tindeunaw, KS2 Stardust Hunting workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. After evaluations are completed, pupils receive a variety of STFC resources such as pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners and Space Rocks activity booklet. Post workshop evaluations found that: 90% of pupils were inspired by the workshop and 83% thought that STEM was relative in their lives. 41% would Seek out further opportunities to engage with STEM and 57% of pupils enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Space Acadamy @Cardiff University |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 30-minute presentation is given on topics such as formation of the solar system and the left-over dust particles, asteroid belt and collisions creating dust. Comet orbits and the dust left behind on Earth's orbit. The amount of celestial dust that falls to Earth each year. How to identify micrometeorites from other particles such as rust and firework particles. A Q & A session is delivered for approx. 20-minutes. Pupils are then given a demonstration on how to find micrometeorites and the equipment needed. Equipment is then handed out to each pupil and a 30/45-minute session in the school yard collecting samples is undertaken. Samples collected are then sieved and placed under a digital microscope for pupils to analyse and identify possible micrometeorite candidates. Possible micrometeorites candidates are collected for further analysis at a lab in Swansea or Cardiff University. No evaluations were taken at this event. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://x.com/Stardust_Hunter/status/1808083804302508436 |
| Description | Space Academy @Cardiff University |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 5-day event, 9.30-15.30 each day, in collaboration with Cardiff Council and working with deprived schools across Cardiff. Used IR and meteorite activities from DS2DI along with Mission2Mars resources. Will be repeated in 2025, with all schools costs funded by Cardiff Council again. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Stardust Hunters and SunSpaceArt at Elan Valley Visitors Centre |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | 50 participants took part in Stardust Hunters and SunSpace Art workshop at an Astronomy family fun day |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid034UtYs2f7WqQRFoiGhmfvqHA72v84NGnUFijphdpSh4V... |
| Description | Teacher CPD at Fitzalan High School, Cardiff |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A 1.5 hour teacher CPD event covering all the science teachers at Fitzalan High School |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | school visit Llanharry Primary Stardust Hunters |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 27 pupils attended the Stardust Hunters workshop. 21 pupils said their space knowledge has improved. 22 pupils said their investigative skills have improved. 21 pupils enjoyed all aspect of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| URL | https://x.com/astrocymru/status/1987088791841218798 |
| Description | school visit Penyrenglyn Primary Stardust Hunters |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 55 pupils attended Stardust Hunters 48 pupils said their space knowledge has improved. 45 pupils said their investigative skills have improved. 33 pupils enjoyed all aspects of the workshop |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2026 |
| Description | school visit Porth Community School Stardust Hunters |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 24 pupils attended the Stardust Hunters workshop. 19 pupils said their space knowledge has improved. 19 pupils said the investigative skills have improved. 12 pupils enjoyed all aspects of the workshop |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02uKURa5ksucvF8BbTHkKP8EUw6dp9RR8YaN1tqCkRHAm... |
| Description | school visit Trinant Primary Stardust Hunters |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 26 pupils attended the Stardust Hunters workshop. 20 pupils said their space knowledge improved. 17 pupils said their investigative skills have improved. 23 pupils said they enjoyed all aspects of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| URL | https://x.com/astrocymru/status/1942964440443351527 |
| Description | school visit YGG Llanharri SunSpaceArt |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 19 pupils attended a SunSpaceArt workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | school visit Ystrad Mynach Primary SunSpaceArt |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 120 pupils and parents attended 3 SunSpaceArt workshops. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | school visit, Coed Y Gof Primary Stardust Hunters |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 23 pupils attended the Stardust Hunters workshop. 16 pupils said their space knowledge has improved. 14 pupils said their investigative skills have improved. 17 pupils said they enjoyed all aspects of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | school visit, Herbert Thompson Primary Stardust Hunters |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 44 pupils attended the Stardust Hunters workshop. 33 pupils said their space knowledge has improved. 21 pupils said their investigative skills have improved. 23 pupils enjoyed all aspects of the workshop |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | school visit, Litchard Primary Stardust Hunters |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 47 pupils attended the Stardust Hunters workshop. 40 pupils said their space knowledge has improved. 34 pupils said their investigative skills have improved. 38 pupils enjoyed all aspects of the workshop |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| URL | https://x.com/astrocymru/status/1987089956632990172 |
| Description | school visit, Litchard Primary Stardust Hunters |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 46 pupils attended the Stardust Hunters workshop. 38 pupils said their space knowledge has improved. 37npupils said their investigative skills have improved. 30 pupils enjoyed all aspects of the workshop |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| URL | https://x.com/astrocymru/status/1941783220564947021 |
| Description | school visit, Llanharry Primary SunSpaceArt |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 25 pupils attended a SunSpaceArt workshop. 19 pupils said their space knowledge has improved. 21pupils said their creative skills have improved. 19 pupils enjoyed all aspects of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | school visit, Millbank Primary Stardust Hunters |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 24 pupils attended the Stardust Hunters workshop. 17 pupils said their space knowledge has improved. 15 pupils said their investigative skill have improved. 18 pupils enjoyed all aspects of the workshop |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | school visit, Nant Caerau Primary Stardust Hunters |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 21 pupils attended the Stardust Hunters workshop. 15 pupils said their space knowledge has improved. 15 pupils said their investigative skills have improved. 11 pupils enjoyed all aspects of the workshop |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | school visit, Pencaerau Primary Stardust Hunters |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 28 pupils attended the Stardust Hunters workshop. 23 pupils said their space knowledge has improved. 19 pupils said their investigative skills have improved. 18 pupils enjoyed all aspects of the workshop |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | school visit, Penyrenglyn Primary SunSpaceArt |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 45 pupils attended a SunSpaceArt workshop. 29 pupils said their space knowledge has improved. 33 pupils said their creative skills have improved. 33 pupils enjoyed all aspects of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2026 |
| URL | https://x.com/astrocymru/status/2028876481003163655 |
| Description | school visit, Porth Community School Stardust Hunters |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 32 pupils attended Stardust Hunters workshop, 29 pupils said their space knowledge improved. 28 pupils said their investigative skills have improved. 14 pupils said they enjoyed all aspects of the workshop |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | school visit, Porth Community School SunSpaceArt |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 23 pupils attended a SunSpaceArt workshop. 19 pupils said their space knowledge has improved. 18 pupils said their creative skills have improved. 16 pupils enjoyed all aspects of the workshop |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02vUXccXAVvqeg1D4tNDGKswQq4bCk7SVFtx5CVm8yadA... |
| Description | school visit, St Fagans Primary Stardust Hunters |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 30 pupils attended the Stardust Hunters workshop. 25 pupils said their space knowledge has improved. 21 pupils said their investigative skill have improved. 25 pupils enjoyed all aspects of the workshop |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | school visit, St Francis Primary, Stardust Hunting Workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 37 pupils attended the Stardust Hunters workshop 30 pupils said their space knowledge has improved. 31 pupils said their investigative skills have improved. 31 pupils said they enjoyed all aspects of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | school visit, Trelai Primary Stardust Hunters |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 37 pupils attended the Stardust hunters workshop. 24 pupils said their space knowledge has improved. 20 pupils said their investigative skills have improved. 23 pupils enjoyed all aspects of the workshop |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | school visit, Trinant Primary SunSpaceArt |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 25 pupils attended a SunSpaceArt workshop. 22 pupils said their space knowledge improved. 19 pupils said their creative skills improved. 17 pupils enjoyed all aspects of the workshop |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | school visit, Victoria Primary Stardust Hunting |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 56 pupils attended the Stardust Hunters workshop. 53 pupils said their space knowledge has improved. 44 pupils said their investigative skills have improved. 36 pupils enjoyed all aspects of the workshop. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2026 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid038LYxr6MYpMy215t5aJhFu7QVxNoQpR5AWZ5i5B2Lt4H... |
| Description | school visit, Windsor Clive Primary Stardust Hunters |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 42 pupils attended the Stardust Hunters workshop. 28 pupils said their space knowledge has improved. 22 pupils said their investigative skills have improved. 20 pupils said they enjoyed all aspects of the workshop |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |