A stellar Scots pupil with dreams of working in the space industry has been given the opportunity of a lifetime to visit NASA.
Molly Beckett, from Girvan Academy, will help plan the next manned mission to Mars when she visits the NASA International Space School in Texas this August.
The S5 pupil will work on the mission during an exciting two-week programme, alongside 50 other students from all over the world.
As well as working on the mission to Mars, Molly will also visit the Neutral Buoyancy Lab, Saturn V rocket, Mission Control and even get the opportunity to meet some astronauts.
Now Molly has launched a JustGiving page to help reel in donations from local businesses and supporters to help fund her once-in-a-lifetime trip.
The aspiring astrophysicist said: “I wanted to go to NASA as it would give me the chance to find out what it’s like to work in the space industry.
“The programme will also provide valuable STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) experience and support my future career plans of becoming an astrophysicist, working for the European Space Agency (ESA).”
Girvan Academy head teacher Mark Anderson said the programme is a big moment for the youngster, who will be representing not only the region but the country as a whole.
He said: “This is a great opportunity for Molly, she will gain valuable experience for the future and act as an ambassador for Scotland, South Ayrshire and the school.
“Due to Covid restrictions, the programme has been a virtual event for the last two years, so it’s great to see it starting up in person again.”
Councillor Stephen Ferry, portfolio holder for education for South Ayrshire Council, added: “This will be the opportunity of a lifetime for Molly.
“We’re keen that wherever possible, young people take advantage of extra-curricular activities to give them a boost on their chosen career path.
“Good luck, Molly – I’m sure you’ll do your school and South Ayrshire proud!”
You can help make Molly’s Mars mission a reality by donating at https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/molly-space-school?utm_term=Rvb8WBYqRA
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