Emporia State University is about to take one giant leap into the stars with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students from Emporia and across Lyon County to talk in real time to astronauts aboard the International Space Station via amateur radio in spring 2026.
In partnership with ARISS, the Amateur Radio on the International Space Station program, which promotes STEM learning opportunities and education about space exploration and satellite communication, Emporia State will be one of only four schools selected to participate in this extraordinary opportunity to speak live with the space station.
Another key local partner, the Emporia Amateur Radio Society, will provide education and expertise as well as facilitate the ham radio connection with the ISS.
The proposal to include ESU as part of this program is the work of faculty and staff including Erika Martin, associate professor in the School of Science and Mathematics; Daphne Mayes, STEM outreach director; Mark Brown, Peterson Planetarium director; and Alexandra Hayes, outreach and engagement coordinator for the Prophet Aquatic Research and Outreach Center.
“We are over the moon with this opportunity to connect our community directly with astronauts orbiting above Earth and learn about amateur radio and space science along the way,” said Martin.
ESU faculty and staff will collaborate with schools, venues and local businesses throughout the City of Emporia to provide educational activities and workshops leading up to the contact event.
Martin added, “Speaking live with the International Space Station is more than a conversation; it is a reminder that STEM is not distant or abstract, but something we can all reach — because here, in our community and university, we are already reaching for the stars.”
The specific date for contact has yet to be determined. Additional information will be shared once it is available and related activities are scheduled. Emporia State invites everyone to join in this stellar opportunity by visiting emporia.edu for updates.