This spring, Emporia State University is launching a journey beyond our atmosphere—one filled with celestial events, hands-on activities, and a rare chance for students from local schools to speak directly with an astronaut aboard the International Space Station via amateur radio.
On Saturday, Feb. 21, from 10 a.m. to noon, ESU invites the community to Signals from Space, a Science Saturday event that uncovers how amateur radio makes long‑distance communication possible. Guests can also explore the ISS and aerospace engineering through interactive activity stations led by Peterson Planetarium director Mark Brown, members of the Emporia Amateur Radio Society and students and staff from ESU’s Prophet Aquatic Research and Outreach Center.
Registration is required for the Science Saturday event by visiting esuparoc.com. Each attendee must register independently. The event is free and open to everyone and will be hosted at ESU’s Cram Science Hall.
ESU is awaiting the confirmed date for its Amateur Radio on the International Space Station contact, known as ARISS, which is expected to take place this spring.
ESU is partnering with the Emporia Public Library, local schools and other area groups to host programs that introduce students and the community to space exploration and communication in preparation for the ARISS event. Recent partnerships include a series of RecExtra events — a collaboration with the Emporia Recreation Center and PAROC that brings space‑themed activities to afterschool programs for local elementary students.