The Voyager Club Returns To the Christa McAuliffe Space Center. Read About Saturday's Meeting and Learn About the Club's Departments. Imaginarium Theater

 

The Voyagers Learn About the Engineering Department from Jade Hansen

The Voyager Club is the name for the Christa McAuliffe Space Center's volunteering organization. The original Voyager Club started at the Space Center in the 1990's. Today's Voyager Club is composed of young space enthusiasts who share a common goal - to excite people to learn about space and what human space exploration offers mankind.

The Voyager Club at the Christa McAuliffe Space Center offers our cadets (members) an opportunity to learn about space and explore the unknown by expanding their understanding of the universe beyond Earth. The club's goal is to create a space faring civilization, because we know that human space exploration has the potential to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers to pursue careers in space-related fields, which could lead to technological advancements that benefit society as a whole. It also provides an opportunity to address important challenges facing humanity. By learning and promoting human space exploration, young people can help shape the future.

The Voyager Club blends science fiction and science to excite young people about space and to encourage them to excel in their school work. Science and science fiction have long been sources of inspiration for young people to learn more about space. Science provides the facts and the understanding of the physical laws that govern the universe, while science fiction offers the imagination and the possibility of what could be. By combining these two sources, young people are able to see beyond what is currently known and consider what may be possible in the future.

Science fiction stories, films, and TV shows often depict space travel, alien life, and futuristic technologies that capture the imaginations of young people and encourage them to learn more about space and science. In turn, this can inspire them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields and contribute to the exploration and understanding of the universe.

Volunteering at the Space Center and / or working in a department is a requirement for membership in the club. Our Voyager cadets volunteer in both the starship simulators and the planetarium and can join any of the Center's four departments.

The Voyagers were introduced to the Space Center's support departments during the meeting. Each of the department heads spoke about their departments and encouraged the cadets to participate.

Engineering Department. Jade Hansen

Join the Engineering Department. If you're interested in engineering, space travel, and science fiction, this club is perfect for you. You'll have the opportunity to work on maintaining state-of-the-art starship simulators, complete with advanced propulsion systems, life-support technology, and other high-tech gadgets. You'll work with a team of like-minded individuals to ensure that the ship is in top condition for its next mission, whether that's exploring new planets, defending the galaxy from alien threats, or simply cruising through the stars. Join us today and be a part of shaping the future of space travel!

Writing Department. Brylee Perry

Are you passionate about writing and fascinated by the possibilities of futuristic space travel? Join the Writing Department and explore the endless possibilities of the universe through storytelling! As a member of our group, you'll have the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share your love for writing and science fiction. Together, we'll create exciting stories and simulator missions that transport readers to distant stars and spark their imaginations. Whether you're an experienced writer or just starting out, our club provides a supportive and collaborative environment to develop your skills and unleash your creativity. Join us today and let's embark on a journey to the stars!

Acting Department: Tyler Weight and Kyla Hansen

Are you a lover of science fiction and the arts? Do you dream of exploring the vast expanse of space in the Voyager Club while honing your acting skills? If so, then our acting department is the perfect place for you!

Join us on a journey through the stars as we train actors to perform in theaters unlike any other - aboard the Space Center's futuristic starships. Our department specializes in science fiction theater, where you'll have the opportunity to bring our missions' favorite characters to life and immerse yourself in thrilling and imaginative storylines.

With our expert trainers, you'll develop a range of skills that will serve you both on stage in the simulators and off. From character development to stage combat, our training will equip you with everything you need to succeed as an starship actor.

And the best part? You'll be performing in a truly unique and exciting environment, surrounded by the wonders of outer space. You'll play a vital role in transporting our visitors to new worlds and new dimensions with every performance

So if you're ready to take your acting to the next level and embark on a thrilling journey through the stars, join us in our acting department today. The universe is waiting for you!

Media and Programming Department: Hayden Senske

Attention Voyagers! Are you interested in learning valuable skills that can help maintain our starship simulators and shape your future? Look no further than our media and programming department! We are seeking enthusiastic individuals who are passionate about programming and graphic design to join our team.

As a member of our department, you will have the opportunity to learn essential skills that can be applied to a variety of fields. You will have the chance to work with cutting-edge technology, and collaborate with like-minded individuals to create stunning visual content that will be used to maintain and enhance our starships.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced coder, our media club is the perfect place to develop your skills and take your knowledge to the next level. So why not join us today and become a part of our community of innovative thinkers, problem-solvers, and creators? Your contribution to our ships' maintenance and the Space Center will be greatly appreciated!

New Club Members were Introduced

New club members were introduced during the Voyager Club meeting on Saturday.  

The Newest Members of the Voyager Club were Introduced

Education in Every Meeting

Every Voyager Club meeting has time reserved for space education and exploration. Brylee Perry did a planetarium presentation for the cadets at Saturday's meeting. After her lesson, Mr. Porter did a demonstration of the planetarium's new laser show. Awesome is the only word for both planetarium presentations.

The cadets in the planetarium

The next Voyager Club meeting will be held in April.  Visit the Space Center's website to learn more about volunteering - the doorway into the Voyager Club.

Imaginarium Theater

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The Starship Phoenix has New Uniforms, Each Housing the Finest in Technology and Protection. The Core Belief of the Voyager Club. Imaginarium Theater

 (paid, professional Starfleet Models. The uniforms may not look as good on you)

     Audrey Henriksen Starfleet Outfitters produces the finest in Starfleet Uniforms.  Recently, she was awarded the contract for a set of uniforms for the USS Phoenix at the Christa McAuliffe Space Center.  With work order in hand, Audrey's design department went to work on the uniforms' appearance.  Various colors were considered from fluorescents to pastels but in the end, the general consensus was to hold true to the darker, more space appropriate colors like black and navy blue. 

With a finished design and approved color scheme, Audrey's elves set to sew the six uniforms.  Working night and day, skipping a meal or two to meet production goals and quotas, and forgoing planned time off, the team finished the order within an hour of the contracted deadline.  The uniforms were done, fitted, and ready for use.  

Audrey's new Starfleet uniforms are designed with the latest technological advancements in mind. Made from a durable, lightweight material, the uniforms are resistant to weapon fire, heat, and radiation, making them ideal for even the most hazardous missions.

The uniforms feature integrated medical sensors, which monitor the wearer's vital signs and provide real-time health data to medical personnel in the event of an emergency. Additionally, the emotional registers embedded in the fabric of the uniform can detect and monitor changes in the wearer's emotional state, providing invaluable insights into their mental wellbeing.

In addition to their protective and diagnostic features, the uniforms are also designed with comfort in mind. They feature breathable fabrics and ergonomic designs that allow for ease of movement and comfort during long missions.

Overall, the new Starfleet uniforms are a significant advancement in space-faring technology, providing increased protection, diagnostic capabilities, and comfort for the crew members who wear them.

Meet Audrey Henriksen

Meet Lieutenant Commander Audrey Henriksen , a Starfleet officer and Christa McAuliffe Space Center Head Supervisor who moonlights as a Jedi Knight. Audrey is a skilled pilot, diplomat, and tactician who has served in Starfleet for many years. She is known for her calm and collected demeanor under pressure, her strategic thinking, and her commitment to justice and peace.

But Audrey's interests go beyond the realm of Starfleet. She is also a member of the Jedi Order, an ancient order of peacekeepers who use the Force to uphold justice throughout the galaxy. Audrey was trained in the ways of the Jedi by her mother, a former Jedi Knight herself, and has honed her skills over the years through rigorous training and practice.

In her Jedi persona, Audrey wears a traditional Jedi robe and carries a lightsaber, the iconic weapon of the Jedi Order. She uses her knowledge of the Force to augment her physical abilities, such as speed and agility, and to sense the emotions and intentions of others.

Audrey's dual identities as a Starfleet officer and a Jedi Knight have made her a valuable asset in many situations. She has used her diplomatic skills to negotiate peace treaties, her tactical expertise to lead successful missions, and her Jedi abilities to sense danger and protect her fellow crew members.

While some may question the wisdom of Audrey's moonlighting as a Jedi Knight, her dedication to both Starfleet and the Jedi Order has never been in doubt. She believes that the two roles are not mutually exclusive, and that her unique combination of skills and knowledge makes her a more effective leader and protector of the galaxy.

The Core Belief of The Voyager Club

(Meaning, if you don't believe this, you're in the wrong club :)

The quote "There is nothing so far removed from us to be beyond our reach, or so far hidden that we cannot discover it" by Rene Descartes suggests that there is nothing in this world that is beyond our grasp or impossible for us to uncover. It means that there are no limits to human curiosity, ingenuity, and perseverance, and that we have the capacity to overcome any obstacle and uncover any truth, no matter how remote or inaccessible it may seem.

The quote encourages us to embrace a mindset of exploration and discovery, and to have faith in our abilities to overcome challenges and achieve our goals. It also implies that nothing is ever truly out of our reach, as long as we remain open-minded, determined, and willing to put in the necessary effort to explore and uncover the mysteries of the world around us.

Voyagers, we have much to do and only a limited lifetime to do it. Let's get busy. Our first Voyager Club meeting will be held at the Christa McAuliffe Space Center Planetarium this Saturday, March 11 from 8:30 - 10:00 A.M. Contact me for more information. victorwilliamson@alpinedistrict.org

Mr. Williamson

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Telos Discovery Space Center Update. The Galileo at American Heritage is Coming Together. The Picture that Kept Me Centered

The Telos Discovery Space Center is part of Telos U in Vineyard, Utah.  TDSC was started by Dr. Ryan Anderson. As a teenager, Dr. Anderson volunteered with me in the original Starship Voyager in the 1990's.  That's where he caught the "Space Center" bug. He grew up, went on to university, graduated with his doctorate degree and has several letters behind his name, some of which I've no clue what they mean but I'm absolutely impressed.  

Ryan Anderson, Ph.D., LMFT, MedFT

Co-founder, Telos U

Executive Director, Telos Discovery Space Center.

Advisor, Dimension X

Ryan has been a good friend to the Space EdVenturing community by supporting our work at The Space Place and working with James Porter on Dimension X - a new system of ship controls to take us into the 23rd century.

I asked Ryan to write a Troubadour post updating us on the innovative work he and his staff are doing on the Starship Hyperion at Telos.  

The Hyperion, Telos Discovery Space Center

The Hyperion is unique amongst Utah County's 15 starship simulators in that most of its missions are developed to go hand in hand with Dr. Anderson's pioneering work in blending immersive education (Hyperion) with the therapeutic work he does with Telos U's student body.   I think we may need to schedule a Voyager Club experience aboard the Hyperion for our cadets.

Ad Astra!

Mr. Williamson

  

And Now, Dr. Anderson's Update  

  

Telos Discover Space Center Update

By Dr. Ryan Anderson

Interweaving second stories with auxiliary timelines. 

Since we tend to work mostly with young adults in our LDM program, we have been continuing to find ways to add a variety of layers to our missions to help keep everyone meaningfully engaged, rather than just busy. As a part of that, we have really been expanding our use of auxiliary timelines. Alex--the creator of Thorium--had excellent foresight in allowing multiple auxiliary timelines to be run in a single mission. So, that allows us to have specific side stories running that are coordinated with the main mission but which proceed at their own pace.

With that, we have created a fairly large number of detailed second stories for Engineering, Security, Science, Medical, and Counterintelligence that go beyond the old favorites of "there's a bomb on the ship" or "a fight broke out in the mess hall," although we still enjoy using those, as well. 

This has allowed us to focus on helping our participants have experiences with a variety of skills such as management, public health measures, auditing (it's more fun than it sounds like!), human resources, and more realistic cyber security issues. 

Easter eggs galore!

I have a bit of a penchant for including Easter Eggs without ruining immersion. So, if you come for a mission on the Hyperion, you will find a wide variety of references to science, art, fantasy, and science fiction. We also have a lot of nods to little details from the original Voyager that long-time Space Center fans might pick  up on. For example, you will notice that in a lot of our visuals, I include a slight rotation of the ship as we approach our destination. This is an homage to one of Victor's classic rotating star fields that was used as a traveling animation on the original Voyager.

I've also tied in a few Easter Eggs for today's generation. For example, fans of the Space Center classic mission "Supernova" will be familiar with Dr. Jenkins and his (spoiler alert) decision to go charging in haphazardly into a tense situation and making it escalate into a crisis. At the Telos Discovery Space Center, we decided to give Dr. Jenkins a first name: Leeroy. Victor probably had no idea how precient his mission was for something that has become a timeless internet meme. And if you need an explanation of Leeroy Jenkins, follow this link. 

Improving our visuals. 

In addition, while we are excited about the development of next generations controls, we are continuing to build upon the visuals that we use, since they can be a big part of our storytelling.

Here are some links to some scenes created with our current level of ability in Unity: 

* Vopox pirates attack: https://youtu.be/m75yEFbpqQk

* Earth orbit loop: https://youtu.be/R3taddNz-u0

* Earth orbit departure: https://youtu.be/u3_mQ6ohAGo

* Magnum fighter launch: https://youtu.be/EuNImUzYmfk

* USS Hyperion beauty shot: https://youtu.be/a2l2ApqwBgg

* Asteroid nuke: https://youtu.be/pHu4d-oNGxA

* Viper Cartel Corsair disabled: https://youtu.be/QSIDuZloUDc

Little by Little the Galileo is Coming Together at American Heritage's Space Center

I paid Alex DeBirk a visit on Monday to get an update on American Heritage's Space Center and his pioneering work on integrating the magic of simulator based immersive education in a K-12th grade setting.  He had a lot to show me, and when all was said and done, I left feeling sorry for him.  I don't think Alex has had a good night's sleep in at least a year.  Between his family, his work as the school's physics teacher, and his job as the director of the school's space program he rarely has a minute for himself.  I was exhausted for him after hearing everything he has planned for his program.  

The Galileo

The one thing I want to highlight today is the work he and his students are doing to get the Galileo II back up and running.  The Galileo II is the 2nd of 3 Starship Galileo's.  The Christa McAuliffe Space Center sold the Galileo to American Heritage when the original Space Center closed to make the move into the new center. 

The Galileo is back up on his wheeled frame and together (for the most part).  The electrical work is the one thing slowing them down. Alex needs a licensed electrician to do the work and finding one is not an easy task with all the construction in Utah County.  Waiting on the electrical work doesn't stop them from doing the other work required to fly the Galileo once again. 

Pictured above is the Galileo's torpedo / probe launch bay. Alex and team are restoring it to its original glory and functionality.    

Alex's high school students are restoring the torpedos and probes like the one above. Students build the equipment, install the equipment into the casing, and launch the unit into space via the launch bay.  Pretty cool, right?  

Alex and team are building a tunnel / hatchway from the ship's medical bunks into the simulator's hallway.  Sitting on the tunnel will be the ship's engineering station using the Voyager I's engineering desk complete with isolineer chips!   

The starship's crew will use the Voyager I's engineering station ladder to get to the station.  It warms this old man's heart to see so much of the first Space Center being used today at  American Heritage School.  

I'll keep you updated on all developments, but for now, let's take a moment to appreciate the good work so many people are doing at Utah County's 6 Space Centers in creating a space faring civilization.

Mr. Williamson    

The Picture that Helps Me Stay Centered and Keep Things In Perspective 

This picture sat at my desk right under my eyes for most of my tenure as Space Center Director.  

This picture is called "Migrant Mother". It is a photograph taken in 1936 in Nipomo, California by American photographer Dorothea Lange.

It depicts a mother looking off into the distance with two of her children at her sides and an infant in her lap. Her children's faces are not shown as the children both bury their faces in their mother's shoulders. Since then, the photograph has become an icon of the Great Depression. 

  

When those bad days came, when the staff drove me crazy, when the campers were too hyper, when trying to keep the Space Center afloat and progressing, when I was exhausted from putting in over 100 hours a week work in the summers with the camps etc. I would glance down at this photo. It reminded me that even though I was having a bad day or two, I needed to put my "bad day" into perspective.  My "bad day" was nothing compared to what this poor migrant mother was facing on the road during the great depression.  

A minute or so with "Migrant Mother" and I would be ready to soldier on and get the job done.  What do you use to recenter yourself when you're having one of those days?  

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