Astro-Pi Mission Zero at Norwich Primary Academy

A recent visit to Norwich Primary Academy has inspired the next generation of computer scientists. Pupils were taught to write a simple program in code that was transmitted to be run on board the International Space Station.

Organised by Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form Outreach, a sixth form part of Inspiration Trust, Dr Trudy Coleman ran the workshop for students, walking them through the steps needed to get their programs working. Year 12 students from Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form also supported the workshop, volunteering to assist with the teaching and learning of pupils from Norwich Primary Academy.

Eric, a Year 12 student at Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form said:

 

“It was a great experience being able to help and teach some inspiring young minds.”

Pupils were supported to program colour and luminosity readings to an Astro Pi computer on board the International Space Station. This allowed them to personalise an image that when transmitted to the station would allow it to be seen by the astronauts on board as they go about their daily tasks.

Dr Trudy Coleman, Computer Science Outreach Lead at Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form said:

 

“It was great to see the Y12 students sharing their love of programming with the Norwich Primary Academy students.”

Working in pairs, pupils coordinated their efforts to finish their code and received certificates to show where aboard the space station their program had run. These workshops hope to inspire the next generation of computer scientists and give pupils.