Imagine a world where classrooms transform into launch pads, propelling students toward the stars. That’s the bold vision of Higher Orbits, a nonprofit founded by a former NASA flight controller turned ‘Space-Mom,’ Michelle Lucas. For a decade, this organization has been quietly revolutionizing STEM education, turning young minds into the next generation of innovators. But here’s where it gets controversial: while many STEM programs focus solely on academic outcomes, Higher Orbits uses space exploration as a hook to inspire students—even those who’ve never considered a career in science. Is this approach too niche, or is it the key to solving the looming STEM workforce shortage? Let’s dive in.
Since its inception, Higher Orbits’ flagship program, Go For Launch!, has grown from a single pilot event in 2016 to nearly 100 nationwide workshops, engaging over 3,000 students. In partnership with Space Tango, middle and high schoolers design and send real experiments to the International Space Station (ISS). Yes, you read that right—real experiments. From testing radiotrophic fungi as radiation shields to studying bee behavior in microgravity, these projects aren’t just theoretical; they’re orbiting Earth as we speak. And this is the part most people miss: by 2026, Higher Orbits will have launched 28 experiments, with four more on the way.
But what’s the bigger picture? As an AIAA Corporate Member, Higher Orbits isn’t just about rockets and robots. It’s about accessibility. Lucas emphasizes, ‘I’m using space to inspire students about STEM, but I’m not trying to make every single one of them rocket scientists.’ Bold statement, right? Yet, the data backs her up: the U.S. faces a critical shortage of STEM graduates, and programs like this are lifelines. By bringing space-inspired STEM to underserved communities, Higher Orbits is democratizing access to careers that shape the future.
Take 13-year-old Eva Estrada, for example. A biology and space enthusiast, she won first place in the junior microbiology division at the Texas Science and Engineering Fair. But what truly fuels her passion? The sense of community Higher Orbits fosters. ‘It has reignited my curiosity for space,’ she says. Stories like Eva’s highlight why AIAA partners with Higher Orbits. Vickie Singer, AIAA Senior Director, puts it bluntly: ‘Michelle understands what inspires students and how to get them excited.’
Here’s how it works: Students, typically in grades 7–12, collaborate with actual astronauts to design experiments. Winners advance to national competitions, and the best projects are selected for the ISS. Space Tango technicians then build the experiments, keeping students updated on progress. It’s a full-circle experience, from classroom to cosmos. But it’s not just about science—it’s about communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. ‘STEM skills are important,’ Lucas notes, ‘but communication skills are what people struggle with the most.’
And the impact? Higher Orbits alumni are now systems engineers, NASA flight controllers, and entrepreneurs. Companies are taking notice, too. Yet, the program’s core mission remains simple: show students they belong in STEM and give them the tools to explore it. As Higher Orbits prepares for its 100th Go For Launch! event in June 2026—back where it all began in Deerfield, IL—the question remains: Can space truly be the gateway to broader STEM engagement? What do you think? Is this the future of education, or just a passing trend? Let’s spark the debate in the comments!
