We participate in the annual Micro-G NExT competition (learn more here), where NASA proposes several different design challenges based on problems they face in real-world operations. We respond to one of these challenges with a preliminary design proposal for a tool in November. If NASA selects our proposal, we execute our design into a finished product, which we test at the NBL in Houston, TX.

 

Fusing dynamic teamwork and daring solutions, we tackle this competition as first-year undergraduates -- despite it being oriented towards seniors. From years past, Team Astra has had an outstanding portfolio of designs and a persistent history of accepted proposals. However, we continue to look forward with more aggressive deadlines, higher design benchmarks, and all the same Hokie spirit!

 

Innovation can't stay put: it spreads. We participate in outreach, often reaching out to schools or community events to present the competition and our solution. For younger minds, we engage them in STEM through interactive activities. We aim to be ambassadors for STEM and promote critical thinking and applied problem-solving in our local community and beyond.

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2018 - 2019: 

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     We developed a camera mount for the exterior of the International Space Station. Having a camera mount for spacewalks is of interest to NASA: at the present, the only camera mount is on the space suit itself. Once secured with a two-way ratcheting system, the camera mount can be bent by the astronaut into virtually any camera angle. We submitted a proposal and were approved to test in the Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory. When undergoing testing in the NBL, NASA personnel were greatly impressed by our simple and intuitive design.