Out of this world experience for Cundall Pupils

Pupils from across the school were treated to an experience of a lifetime following the visit of a former NASA Astronaut.

Earlier today we played host to Richard Mastracchio to hear all about his experience in space and his career to date.

Rick who is a former NASA astronaut and a veteran of four missions, popped by the local school as part of a wider tour across Yorkshire. As part of his career, he logged 227 days, 13 hours, 38 minutes in space, including NINE extravehicular activities outside of the space station.

Rick spoke to pupils describing his career and his role on the International Space Station. Describing the future of space travel, Rick encouraged pupils to consider becoming an astronaut.

Children also got to see what life was like on board the ISS and how astronauts lived, ate and exercised. Rick said: “You have to do 2 hours of exercise a day to stay fit and healthy. In space, there is no up or down and you don’t use your muscles in the same way as earth so exercise is very important.”

Rick is one of only 536 people ever to make it into of the earth’s orbit.

Mrs Amanda Kirby introduced Rick to an appreciative audience of pupils. She said: “It is an absolute honour to welcome Rick to Cundall Manor School. It is not every day that you get to meet a person who has lived such an extraordinary life.”

“Rick’s experiences give him a very unique perspective on life and for him to get on stage at our school and speak to our pupils is an experience that I am certain, none of our pupils or staff will ever forget.”

Pupils from the school also got to ask the former NASA astronaut their own questions and pose for a photo with Rick.