Chippenham Scouts celebrate new badge at space centre

The Scouts, including the 2nd Chippenham Scouts, gathered at the Leicester site on October 6 to make the launch of the Space Badge.

The badge aims to inspire and educate the next generation by building on skills that are less commonly accessible to young people, such as space science, astronomy, and aviation technology.

A spokesperson for the group said: "They participated in an exciting day of learning and adventure to celebrate the launch of the highly anticipated new Scouts Space Badge, offering young Scouts the opportunity to immerse themselves in the wonders of space and aviation first-hand."

2nd Chippenham Scouts at the National Space Centre (Image: Martyn Milner) UK astronaut in training, Meganne Christian, shared personal insights into her unique job.

Throughout the day, Scouts engaged in a variety of interactive activities, hands-on experiments, and presentations from space experts.

They took part in astronaut training sessions which mimicked the physical and mental challenges faced by real astronauts, explored exhibits on the solar system, and asked questions during a Q&A session.

Dwayne Fields, chief Scout, said: "The introduction of the new Space Badge is brilliant and this special trip to the National Space Centre opens up a world of possibilities for our young people’s futures.

"So wonderful to see that learning and gaining new skills can be fun and that our Scouts are making amazing lifelong memories along the way."

2nd Chippenham Scouts at the National Space Centre (Image: Martyn Milner) Chas Bishop, chief executive of the National Space Centre, added: "We are thrilled to host this event at the National Space Centre and support the Scouts in their mission to provide young people with unique and enriching experiences.

"The launch of the Space Badge aligns perfectly with our goal to inspire curiosity and passion for space exploration among the youth."

Twelve-year-old Ayush, from Chippenham, said the rocket science experiment was "just great," adding: "It was exploding everywhere, this has been such a fun day. I can't wait to go back."

2nd Chippenham Scouts at the National Space Centre (Image: Martyn Milner) The trip is part of the Scouts' work to expose young people to careers in space and aviation fields that they might not have typically had the opportunity to explore.

The spokesperson said: "This day was inspiring for the young attendees, and may even push them to pursue a future careers available within these specialised industries."

The National Space Centre features interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and hosts educational programmes.