UK Space Design Competition, Yorkshire Regional Finals 2015
Fri, 19 Dec 2014 15:10:00 GMT
Students from across the UK took part in the first northern England heat of the UK Space Design Competition (UKSDC) on Saturday 6th December at the University of Huddersfield.
The University hosted 50 students aged 15-18 from Cardiff, London and Huddersfield. Competitors were challenged to design a state-of-the-art futuristic research facility and human space settlement, which would be used to explore a comet (67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko) 50 years from now.
The teams worked tirelessly during the 14-hour event to propose detailed solutions for issues such as power generation, the creation of artificial gravity and ensuring occupants would be safe from solar radiation and space debris. Students were also asked to take into account human factors to ensure the base was equipped with comfortable living and working environments and recreational facilities.
The winning design, proposed by students from Cardiff Sixth Form College, detailed proposals for a sophisticated computational infrastructure and methods of maintaining radio contact with planet Earth. It also encompassed a zero gravity swimming pool which would help residents to unwind and relax after a hard day on the base.
Runners up included local secondary school Batley Girls’ High. Teacher Bethan Evans said, “We’re delighted to have taken part in the event, it was a great day and the girls are still buzzing following their presentation. We look forward to taking part again in next year’s competition!”
Winners Cardiff Sixth Form College will now progress to the national UK finals held at Imperial College London in March, with a chance travel to a NASA base to represent the UK at the International Space Settlement Design Competition.
The date for next year’s northern England final at the University of Huddersfield will be announced soon. To take part, please contact Carolyn Bishop, Schools and Colleges Officer, c.bishop@hud.ac.uk.
