Giant leap for SaxaVord Spaceport: space camp educator selected for Blue Origin mission

Mike Mongo, a long-standing friend and partner to SaxaVord Spaceport, has announced that he has been selected to travel to space on the Blue Origin mission. The Blue Origin mission was first unveiled by Jeff Bezos in May 2019.

This news comes as SaxaVord Spaceport and Mongo prepare to host the second edition of Mongo’s Astronaut Job Camp next month in Shetland. The camp will see children, aged 11-14 in Shetland, and virtually across the UK and North America foster their STEAM and teamwork skills and get a taste for a career in the space industry.

Mike Mongo will lead a series of interactive space mission-themed workshops designed to teach children about tomorrow’s jobs in space, the skills needed in space missions, inclusivity in the cosmos, how space connects us across the globe, and its impact on sustainability. 

The camp will open for virtual participants on 4^th July and in-person in Islesburgh Community Centre on 11^th July. Registrations are now open. 

Frank Strang, CEO of SaxaVord Spaceport, said: “What could be more exciting for children than to learn about a trip into space from a real-life astronaut? Mike’s vision of encouraging space education aligns with our own mission of championing STEAM skills across Shetland and beyond. We’re thrilled for Mike and his team. The Blue Origin mission marks another exciting chapter in space exploration and we are delighted that the children taking part in our space camp will feel part of it.” 

To find out more and register participation, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/astronaut-job-camp-2022-485899