·      Applications are invited from students entering Years 10 and 11 in 2009 from all NSW secondary schools.

·      Students will work with nationally and internationally recognised scientists and space science educators.

·      A feature of the school is a conference phone call from NASA astronaut Dr. Andrew Thomas at the Johnson Space Centre in Houston, Texas, enabling students to personally converse with Andy.

·      The students will also have the opportunity to experience conference style lessons with eminent NASA Moon and Mars scientists at the Johnson Space Centre about their research and discoveries.

·      Learning experiences (lessons and associated activities) will cover a range of space sciences such as space travel, astronomy, rocket launching, astrobiology, meteorite impacts, lunar and Martian geology and night sky observing.

·      Students attending will be eligible to attend the Australian International Space School 2009 in Australia and the Australian Space School at Space Centre Houston, Texas 2009. While there, students will also be able to tour the Johnson Space Centre as well as meet and experience talks from NASA scientists and astronauts.

·      For new students, a $400 registration fee or a deposit of $100 must be sent in with each application with the remaining amount to be paid by 15^th January, 2009. Graduates from previous schools pay $300. This fee covers all meals, accommodation and necessary materials for the duration of the school.

·      Accommodation will be on the university campus in secure buildings with teacher supervisors.

·      24 hour supervision of students will be undertaken by experienced teachers currently employed in education to ensure ultimate care and safety of all participants. All activities will be held within the university campus.

·      Applicants will be sent information regarding the location, requirements and activities of the school after their applications have been processed.

·      Applicants with special needs, disabilities, medical conditions or dietary requirements or who are prohibited from participating in an activity for any reason should specify these to the coordinator, either on the application form or by a separate note from a parent or guardian.

·      Students will be responsible for all travel costs to and from Newcastle. Participants may arrive at the university from 3.00pm onwards. School supervisors will meet long-distance participants at Broadmeadow Rail Station or at Newcastle Airport by arrangement with the coordinator, Dr. Jeanette Rothapfel.

HOW TO APPLY

1.    Complete a copy of the Application Form, attach a passport-size photo for school ID purposes and return by 18th December, 2008.

a)      By Mail:  NSW SCHOOL OF SPACE SCIENCE
                     P.O. Box 1150, Newcastle, NSW., 2300

b)      By Fax: 0249426029

c)      By Email: jrothapfel at hunterlink.net.au (application only)

2.      The registration fee or deposit can be paid by cheque, money order or by bank transfer to: 

BSB: 815 000 (NSW Police Credit Union)
ACCOUNT NUMBER: 240553
ACCOUNT NAME: NSW SCHOOL OF SPACE SCIENCE

For further information phone Dr. Jeanette Rothapfel AH 49426029 or 0412327882 or email.