Capitol Technology University welcomed students, families, and community members to campus last month as an official event location for International Observe the Moon Night. This annual celebration organized by NASA encourages communities to connect with our skies through lunar observation and aerospace science.
Hosted in partnership with Fire Rockets, the free public event garnered a large crowd and featured activities that served as an introduction to the field of astronautical engineering for participants of all ages.
Jeff Volosin, Department Head of Engineering, kicked off the event with his presentation on Capitol Tech's almost 25 years in Astronautical Engineering as well as his expertise on NASA's Artemis and TESS programs. Adjunct Professor Marcel Mabson provided a presentation on astronomy, celestial sightings in the night sky, and how to use a telescope.
Participants worked inside Capitol Tech’s Fusion Lab and Space Flight Operations Training Center (SFOTC), which were recently upgraded, and explored our advanced equipment that mirrors real flight systems used by professionals in the field.
Throughout the evening, attendees also participated in hands-on activities designed to bring astronomy and aerospace engineering to life. A recreation of the Apollo 11 landing site led participants along the same path as Neil Armstrong and his team of astronauts. The university's Rocketry Club showcased the rocket models they had developed during their time at Capitol Tech, highlighting student creativity and the engineering skills learned in our programs.
More than a dozen telescopes, including our on-campus observatory, were available for public viewing. With help from the Fire Rockets team of volunteers, participants also built their own rockets equipped with glow-stick attachments before heading to the field for an illuminated night-time launch, bringing the event to a spectacular close.
We look forward to seeing everyone at next year's event. Be sure to sign up for email updates about our upcoming aerospace events at capl.ink/ase-events.
