Objective Provide an opportunity for students to explore real-world Research and Development Projects Background Students Planning And Conducting Engineering (SPACE) Student teams perform high-quality, year-long Research and Development projects Students recognize multidisciplinary skills are necessary for success The importance of technicians to the success of a R&D project is emphasized AFRL provides volunteer mentors and resources Final report and formal briefing by students at AFRL Conference Center 14 schools participating in 1999-2000 Schools' investment --> $140K What is the SPACE Project? Students and their teacher learn Research and Development skills AFRL supplies mentors from AFRL and other organizations Year long projects have patent potential Wide range topics including lasers, mining in space, C++ computer simulations, and wind phenomenon Benefits to AFRL Increased visibility with outside organizations Heightens goodwill with the community Strengthens ability to make future partnerships Provides a vehicle to increase the number of future scientists and engineers Successes For school year 99-00, 14 high schools performing high level Research and Development projects including a Gimbal Tracking System, Mining Jupiter's Moon, Europa, COIL research on generation of iodine atoms in the gas phase, and simulation of the interaction of a laser beam with a cylinder Using SPACE as a tool for students to develop a learning platform to support latch key kids Patent was issued for a high school SPACE project, an electromagnetic sliding satellite door National recognition including CNN coverage, Defense News, and Space Business News Participation SPACE Participation Form