Earth Observation History for “Joves i Ciència”

SPASCAT is proud to have participated as a volunteer collaborator in the project ‘NewSpace: Small Satellites to Change the World’, part of the prestigious Joves i Ciència program organized by the Catalunya La Pedrera Foundation. This initiative took place from June 25 to July 7, 2024, at MónNatura Pirineus and was aimed at sparking scientific vocations in talented young students.

The program, organized by the Institute of Space Studies of Catalonia (IEEC) and aligned with the Talent and Society axis of the Government of Catalonia’s NewSpace Strategy, brought together ten 4th-year ESO students (ages 15-16) for an immersive two-week journey into the world of space science and satellite technology.

SPASCAT had the opportunity to contribute to this unique learning experience by delivering an engaging talk on space exploration and Earth Observation science. Our session aimed to provide students with an inspiring perspective on how grassroots initiatives and amateur projects can contribute to real scientific progress and become true space missions.

Over the course of the two-week program, students participated in workshops, lectures, and hands-on activities covering Earth observation, satellite communications, and mission simulation. They even designed and launched high-altitude balloon missions simulating real satellite deployments, analyzing telemetry data and presenting their results to peers, families, and research professionals.

SPASCAT’s involvement, alongside other notable entities such as SENER, WIA-Europe Barcelona, Cosmic Research, Hypatia Mars Association, and the i2CAT Foundation, reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting the next generation of space professionals in Catalonia.

This marks only the first phase of the students’ journey in the Joves i Ciència program. In summer 2025, they will take part in research internships at leading Catalan institutions to further explore careers in science and aerospace.