Space Science Education through EXPLORE and STEMMOS Initiatives

The EXPLORE and STEMMOS  two complementary Erasmus + projects aim to transform space science education across Europe by integrating hands-on experiences, digital tools, and interdisciplinary learning approaches.

The EXPLORE Project, led by the Austrian Space Forum (OeWF), engages students and educators in planetary science and human space exploration through innovative toolkits, real-world simulations, and training sessions. Implemented in collaboration with  EA, NUCLIO, COSPAR and  Biosky, the project provides participants with practical experience in mission planning and execution.

Central to EXPLORE are two Student Analog Missions, scheduled for June 2025 and spring 2026 in Alqueva, Portugal. These missions simulate human Mars expeditions, immersing students in roles as analog astronauts and mission support personnel. Participants will carry out scientific experiments, habitat operations, and extravehicular activities, gaining the essential 21st-century skills of problem-solving, teamwork, and decision-making under simulated extraterrestrial conditions.

A core component of the project is the development of physical and virtual toolkits to support experiential learning. Physical toolkits include sensors, data collection devices, and planetary surface models. Virtual toolkits provide mission planning software, interactive simulations, and digital learning resources, making planetary exploration accessible to diverse educational levels.

EXPLORE offers training sessions for teachers, students, and schools to ensure the effective implementation of the toolkits. These sessions improve digital and scientific literacy, enabling participants to engage in space exploration activities. In addition, the project will provide in July 2025 a summer school for teachers, offering professional development on integrating space science into classroom practices.

Meanwhile, the STEMMOS Project focuses on enhancing digital and STEAM competencies through Earth, Moon, and Mars Observation (EMMO) science. Led by Munster Technological University’s Blackrock Castle Observatory (Ireland), the project brings together five partners: NUCLIO, EA, Stem Education LTD (Bulgaria), NOA, and OeWF. STEMMOS aims to inspire students and educators by integrating digital tools, robotics, satellite data and innovative teaching methodologies.

Key STEMMOS activities include national training sessions, a summer school, and experiential space science festivals in Ireland and Greece. Over 500 educators and 1,000 students will be directly engaged, with a focus on promoting gender inclusivity and diversity in STEAM education. The project features a Massive Open Online Course and a dedicated STEMMOS Hub, providing educators with freely accessible resources for interactive learning.

Both projects emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration, bridging education and space exploration. While EXPLORE immerses students in realistic Mars mission scenarios, STEMMOS focuses on teaching EMMO science through digital tools and hands-on learning;  both provide comprehensive training for educators.

Together, these initiatives create a lasting educational impact by connecting participants with cutting-edge space science, fostering sustainable teaching methodologies, and preparing future generations to address global challenges through careers in science, technology, and exploration.

By advancing analog mission research, promoting space science education, and creating engaging learning environments, EXPLORE and STEMMOS contribute to Europe’s educational landscape. Both projects serve as platforms for building digital competencies, encouraging diversity, and equipping students with the skills to explore the next frontiers of satellite data and human space exploration.