Manx NASA students return after planning Mars mission

Wed, 23 Sep 2015

From left, Minster for Education Tim Crookall, ManSat Chief Executive Chris Stott, Sam Lancaster, Ballakermeen High School Headteacher Adrienne Burnett, Josie McGarrigle and ManSat Non-Executive Director Ian Jarrit

Two Ballakermeen High School students have been reflecting on a life changing summer spent planning a mission to Mars.

Sixth formers Josie McGarrigle and Sam Lancaster were the latest students to win scholarships to the NASA United Space School.

Mansat has operated the scheme since it started in 2000 - it offers the successful applicants the chance to travel to the space headquarters in Houston for a fortnight of intensive work experience.

Chief executive Chris Stott says the scholarship has helped boost the Island's profile: