The International Space Station (ISS) instruments have been recreated in a Space Lab at a Dubai school, namely GEMS International School – Al Khail (GIS). The Space Lab was inaugurated on Thursday, offering students the opportunity to explore various space-related topics such as hydroponic agriculture on Mars, 3D game design for social interaction, AI-enhanced robotic pets for Mars, autonomous vehicles for Martian transportation, DIY space repairs, and the use of robotic arms, wearable haptics, and gesture controls for space operations. The programme will be available as an elective option for Grades 9-10 students in Design under the IBMYP in the upcoming academic year.
GIS offers a diverse set of course options in design, including Product Design, Digital Design/UI/UX, Food Design, Fashion Design, STEM Aviation, and now Space Lab. The school aims to create student-centered learning environments where students can advance their skill sets rapidly. Traditional teaching methods are not being used in the Space Lab as students are encouraged to be developers rather than consumers of technology. They are empowered to design and test various projects related to space operations, such as growing plants in space, conducting research on light conditions, and humidity.
Excited students showcased their work in the Space Lab, explaining their projects in great detail. For example, Russian student Stepan Litovchenko highlighted the benefits of hydroponic farming in space, emphasizing water usage over soil which allows for space-saving and increased produce growth. Grade 10 student Rehana discussed the remote-controlled mechanical arm designed for space operations, which can be helpful in fixing things without human intervention, reducing human casualties. An interactive robot was also demonstrated by students, showcasing its educational and entertainment utility in various fields, including sports and space.
The Space Lab inauguration event was attended by Nora AlMatrooshi, the first Emirati female astronaut, and Mohammad AlMulla, a NASA Astronaut Candidate graduate. AlMatrooshi expressed her envy towards the students for the advanced facilities in the Space Lab, emphasizing the importance of human exploration in space. The school also indicated its interest in collaborating with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) for future endeavors and aims to partner with other schools in Dubai to enhance aviation, aeronautics, and space education in the curriculum.
The event was also attended by Aisha Miran, Director General of the KHDA, and the students were addressed by Mohammed, who praised the school’s aviation lab and facilities. He expressed his amazement at the robotics and space lab, stating that it aligns with their goal of inspiring the next generation in the field of space exploration. The event marked a significant milestone for GIS in promoting education and interest in space-related fields among students, with the Space Lab providing a platform for hands-on learning and experimentation in various space technologies and innovations.
