Train like an Astronaut

Staying fit and healthy benefits us all. In my case it is a necessity. Not only because I will be running the Solar Eclipse Marathon in Port Douglas, Australia on November 14, 2012, but I also have to stay strong for my upcoming space flight mission.

ESA's Astronaut and Exp 40/41 crew member Alex Gerst cheering me on!

In partnership with the White House "Let's Move!" initiative, NASA's "Train Like an Astronaut" program aims to increase opportunities in both in and out of school for kids to become more physically and mentally active. This program uses the "Have you ever wondered what it takes to be an astronaut?" excitement of space exploration and astronaut training to challenge, inspire, and educate kids to set physical fitness goals and to practice physical fitness and proper nutrition.

In this program kids will explore mission challenges, learn the science behind nutrition, and learn to train like a real astronaut! It's a ton of fun.

The Train Like an Astronaut physical activities are modeled after the real-life training that astronauts do to prepare for exploration of space. Kids (and adults) will experience hands-on science that relates the needs of our bodies on Earth to the needs of an astronaut in space (and hopefully will also experience some sore muscles!)

These activities were developed in cooperation with NASA scientists and fitness professionals who work directly with astronauts like me and my Expedition 40/41 crew members Reid Wiseman (NASA) and Alexander Gerst (ESA). Although the program is designed for 8-12 year olds, it is for anyone and everyone who is curious about exploration and what it takes to be an astronaut. Plus, keeping your body healthy and in shape is a fun bonus!

Would you like to know more information?
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/trainlikeanastronaut/home/index.html

And this is the solar eclipse marathon I am running: 
http://solar-eclipse-marathon.com/

STEM or STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art&Aeronautics, Math)

My dearest friends! Can you believe it is already 2012? Happy New Year!

This year will be all about STEM or I like to call it STEAM. I really think Art and Aeronautics should be included too.

To start off I am going to collect some helpful links where parents and teachers can get good STEM activities for their kids. Check back because I will keep adding links as I come across them.


National Bird Day (Jan 5, 2012) - Many issues are affecting our birds. Teachers Pack available here.

GLOBE at Night - Student activities preparing students for star observations at night and talks about the issues surrounding light pollution. Teachers Pack available here.

I-STEM - Resource Network and Lessons Plans available here.

Tech Know Teaching - STEM Activities available here.

STEM Education Coalition - support STEM programs for teachers and students at the US Department of Education, NSF and other agencies. Website here.

STEM Activities and Resources for K-12 Teachers and Students - National Science Foundation GK-12 website here.

PBS Teacher - STEM Education Resource Center website here.

NASA Digital Learning Network - NASA DLN connects students and teachers with NASA Experts and education specialists using online communication technology. Website here.


iCreate to Educate - increases student understanding across all content areas with simple, intuitive technology. Website here.