From 20–23 July, nine Year 9 and 10 students, along with two teachers, set off on an unforgettable four-day adventure to Adelaide for the Australian Space Forum. The trip was packed with opportunities to explore Australia's growing space industry, try new experiences, meet inspiring people and create lifelong memories. It was a trip we never wanted to end, and we would all go back in a heartbeat.
After arriving in Adelaide, we spent the afternoon exploring the vibrant CBD and taking in our new surroundings while getting excited for everything that lay ahead. That evening, we put our teamwork and problem-solving skills to the test at Hijinx Hotel, racing through a series of fun and interactive challenge rooms before enjoying some friendly competition at bowling. There were plenty of laughs, celebrations and even some surprisingly good bowling skills on display, making it the perfect way to start the trip. Later that evening, we travelled to the Paringa Hotel, where we stayed before beginning our exciting space adventure the next day.
Our second day was a highlight as we attended the Australian Space Forum. We had the opportunity to hear from leaders in Australia's space industry, including Katherine Bennell-Pegg, Australia's first female astronaut. Listening to her journey and the determination it took to achieve her dream inspired everyone in the room and left us thinking about the endless possibilities of careers in space.
Throughout the forum, we explored exhibition stalls, spoke with industry professionals, discovered the latest innovations in Australian space technology, collected plenty of free merchandise and enjoyed the generous food and treats provided by exhibitors. Every corner of the forum offered something new to discover.
Later that day, we visited the Australian Space Discovery Centre, where we explored interactive exhibits showcasing Australia's role in space exploration. We finished the evening with a game of mini golf, sharing plenty of laughs and creating even more memories together.
The following day, we returned to the Australian Space Forum to continue exploring everything it had to offer. Highlights included stepping inside the CSIRO Mobile Mission Control Van, experiencing immersive virtual reality simulations and discovering cutting-edge technologies helping shape Australia's future in space.
Afterwards, we travelled to Hamilton Secondary College to take part in the Mission to Mars Program alongside students from two other schools. We were divided into two teams, with half becoming astronauts on Mars while the others worked in Mission Control. Together, we faced challenges that tested our teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills. Unfortunately, one of our astronauts missed completing the mission by just two seconds after one crucial decision resulted in a dramatic and hilarious mission failure. While we didn't quite save the day, it quickly became one of the funniest moments of the trip and a memory we'll be laughing about for years to come.
We also enjoyed a Planetarium experience, travelling through the Solar System and beyond as we explored planets, galaxies and the vast universe. It gave us an even greater appreciation for the wonders of space.
That evening, we travelled to the Mannum Dark Sky Reserve, singing along to music and building our excitement for the journey ahead, before staying overnight at a nearby caravan park. With almost no light pollution, we were treated to one of the most breathtaking night skies many of us had ever seen. Thousands of stars stretched across the sky as the Milky Way shone brilliantly overhead. We spotted constellations such as the Southern Cross and learned how people have used the stars for navigation and storytelling throughout history. Sitting together under one of Australia's clearest night skies was truly one of the most memorable moments of the excursion.
On our final day, we returned to the Australian Space Discovery Centre to complete a hands-on CubeSat Workshop. Before we could build our miniature satellites, we had to solve a series of puzzles to earn each component, making the activity both challenging and rewarding. It tested our engineering, teamwork and critical thinking skills while giving us a real insight into satellite design.
Before heading home, we visited MOD., an innovative museum where science, art and technology come together through interactive exhibits. The experience encouraged us to think creatively about the future and left us inspired by the possibilities that innovation can bring.
Looking back, the Adelaide excursion was so much more than just a school trip. It was an unforgettable adventure filled with laughter, new friendships and experiences that will stay with us forever. From meeting Australia's first female astronaut and exploring cutting-edge technology to surviving Mission to Mars (almost!), building CubeSats and stargazing beneath one of the clearest skies in Australia, every moment was special.
Although we returned home with tired feet and full suitcases, we also came back with unforgettable stories, stronger friendships and a new appreciation for Australia's exciting future in space. It was one of those rare experiences that we know we'll be talking and laughing about for years to come.
Article written by Isla and Isabelle 10WO
