North Tonawanda students conduct science experiments and head to the International Space Station

NORTH TONAWANDA, N.Y. — North Tonawanda students will send experiments performed by astronauts to the International Space Station.

A research project designed by a group of North Tonawanda students will soon be heading to the International Space Station. Since the beginning of the school year, students have been working on projects and proposals for Mission 18 of the Student Spaceflight Experiment Program.

This group of Year 11 students won this year’s experiment, which tests whether bacteria create spores and crystals in microgravity. This is important because spores and crystals naturally kill insects on Earth.

So as we move into space and people start farming there, these students want to make sure the spores and crystals can grow.

“We’re really, really excited. We’re doing trails right now and looking at specific amounts of chemicals and how to actually do that. So together with UB on the trail,” said North Tonawanda biology teacher Melissa Elliott. high school.

“We’re very excited to be working with NASA. We might even be able to work with NASA and see a launch into space. This is a really great opportunity for all of us. Yes, and we’re all very excited.”Kylie Cinquino, member of the North Tonawanda High School team.

The district also recognized experiments that received honorable mention as finalists. This includes middle school students within the district. The mission carrying experiments from North Tonawanda High School is scheduled to fly sometime this summer.