Paper Session III-D - Elements of Space Flight Project: A Partnership for Space Education

A unique partnership for space education was formed to facilitate greater understanding of space technology and issues for K12 students world-wide. The Elements of Space Flight Project brought school children and teachers together with experts from government and industry, using the Internet, to create a one-of-a-kind learning experience. This four-week project involved thirty-one classes from all corners of the globe -- led by teachers who want to explore the universe with their students, and expand their horizons so they can take their place in the world of the future. 128 others were turned down due to a lack of funds and personnel to assist. Internet-monitored projects for the students included: construction of a space shuttle glider; rocket cars; and paper rockets. Students are tasked to conduct test flights, to analyze data and form conclusions concerning their work. They were also tasked to conduct research on a variety of space topics and answer challenge questions via e-mail. Each class was provided e-mail Experts from whom they could gather additional information or pose questions about their projects. Questions and results could also be posted to the general project membership for consideration and review. This model program, in its first year of existence, was made possible by the efforts of Ms Joan Berger of the Roslyn Public Schools, Roslyn, New York, the US Air Force Academy (USAFA), Air Force Space Command (AFSPC), NASA and the US Space Foundation (USSF). Results are presented from this first experience, as well as recommendations for changes to next year\u27s program

Laboratory Response to Anthrax Bioterrorism, New York City, 2001

In October 2001, the greater New York City Metropolitan Area was the scene of a bioterrorism attack. The scale of the public response to this attack was not foreseen and threatened to overwhelm the Bioterrorism Response Laboratory’s (BTRL) ability to process and test environmental samples. In a joint effort with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the cooperation of the Department of Defense, a massive effort was launched to maintain and sustain the laboratory response and return test results in a timely fashion. This effort was largely successful. The development and expansion of the facility are described, as are the special needs of a BTRL. The establishment of a Laboratory Bioterrorism Command Center and protocols for sample intake, processing, reporting, security, testing, staffing, and quality assurance and quality control are also described