Earlier this month, Sudbury-born Megan Gran -- a York University Space Engineering student -- represented Canada in the European Space Agency's (ESA) "Fly a Rocket" program for students ages 18-32.
Gran was the only Canadian selected for the experience, which was conducted at the Andoya Space Centre in northern Norway, beyond the Arctic Circle.
After a week of lectures and rigorous testing on the advanced subject matter, Gran and her fellow teammates built and launched a "sounding rocket," which are designed to reach the Earth's atmosphere for research purposes.
The nearly eight-foot tall Mongoose 98 rocket was launched to an altitude of more than 30,000 feet at a speed of nearly three times the speed of sound.
As part of the sensor team, Gran is quoted as saying in a news release that her group was responsible for designing, building and placing sensors on board the rocket. Included in their work was a light sensor that allowed her team to tell the direction and speed of the rocket's spin from the rocket's telemetry.
"It was amazing to be able to launch my first serious rocket at this age," said Gran. "With Canada’s involvement in the creation of the new space station, the Lunar Gateway, and the continued push to Mars, I'm very excited about the future of the space program and how I can contribute."
Gran has returned to York University to continue her studies, with plans to work in the space industry. You can follow Gran's adventures in science by following @Megthespacie on Twitter.
