Louisiana students are gearing up for an out-of-this-world experience as they prepare to make the state’s first-ever call to space. Set to take place on Tuesday, these students will have the rare opportunity to ask questions to astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) as part of their attendance at a NASA Astro camp.

The event, which aims to bring hope to the Southwest Louisiana area, is particularly significant as this region has endured significant devastation from hurricanes in recent years. By offering these students a chance to connect with astronauts in space, it serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always room for dreams and aspirations.

The two astronauts participating in the call are Dr. Frank Rubio and Woody Hoburg, both of whom hold impressive backgrounds. Dr. Rubio is a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy and holds board certifications as a family physician and flight surgeon. With his wide-ranging expertise, he is well-equipped to provide insightful responses to the students’ inquiries.

On the other hand, Woody Hoburg brings his extensive knowledge in the field of aeronautics and astronautics. Holding a bachelor’s degree from MIT and a doctorate in electrical engineering and computer science from UC Berkeley, Hoburg played a pivotal role in piloting the crew to the ISS and successfully docking their spacecraft on March 3.

The call to space will be broadcasted on NASA Television, as well as on the agency’s website and app, at 9:15 a.m. on Tuesday. Approximately 300 students will have the chance to attend the event in person, while an additional 5,000 students will be joining virtually.

This extraordinary event is just one element of a week-long camp experience meticulously designed to inspire and excite local students. With hopes of encouraging a passion for space exploration, this immersive program seeks to ignite the imaginations of these young minds and promote their interest in STEM fields.

As preparations intensify for the state’s first-ever call to space, the anticipation among the students continues to grow. From providing a glimmer of hope for hurricane-impacted regions to showcasing the incredible work of astronauts, this event promises to be an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impact on participants’ lives.