January 29, 2025 Washtenaw Technical Middle College
Meet the new Earth and Space Science Club!
Our Mission Statement: The Earth & Space Science Club welcomes individuals who are eager to explore solar, space, climate, and Earth sciences! Our mission is to deepen our understanding of these topics through hands-on experiences and citizen science projects, while developing essential skills for future careers in science.
Washtenaw Technical Middle College is excited to announce our brand-new Earth and Space Science (ESS) club. The club was formed to encourage WTMC students to engage in activities that extend beyond what they learn in their classroom science curriculum. ESS Club leaders intend for club members to explore the possibilities of Earth and space science using real-world applications through projects and hands-on activities throughout the school year.
Projects and Opportunities
ESS Club has two main projects for WTMC students to participate in this school year:
1. SunRISE Ground Radio LabProject: This project is in collaboration with NASA and the University of Michigan, where
students collect solar radio burst data to study the relationship between the Earth
and the Sun. Club members will install an antenna on the rooftop of the OE building,
allowing them to gather and analyze solar radio data in real time. The purpose of
this project is to contribute to our understanding of space weather, and also to expand
our own understanding and perspectives.
The SunRISE project will offer students firsthand experience with scientific research methods, helping
them refine their skills in data analysis, critical thinking, and collaborative research—skills
taught in WTMC classes but now applied in the larger context of earth and space science.
2. Coaching Middle School Science Olympiad (MSO): For students who would like to take a volunteering approach that still aligns with their interests and passions for science, ESS Club offers a unique volunteering opportunity for all those who are interested. These students will be able to coach South Arbor’s Middle School Science Olympiad team, where coaches will assist in two events this school year: Dynamic Planet and Meteorology. Club members will commit time outside of the school day to provide coaching to the Middle School Olympiad team.
ESS Club plans to create more opportunities for students to engage in throughout the rest of the school year. Though for now, they will be more than welcome to allow new members to help brainstorm ideas for possible projects and activities for students to participate in the future.
Check out the article about ESS Club in the Washtenaw Voice - WTMC student explores beyond earth, space with NASA-sponsored internship
Club Officers
Alex Long - WTMC Faculty Advisor
Sruthi M. - Club President
Matt G. - Club Vice President
Keirah C. - Club Secretary
Rigo G. & Trey O. - Club Social Media Heads
The club meets every Thursday from 3:15 PM to 4:00 PM in LA 124 of the LA building.