Our first full day started off with a talk on alternative rocket technology and orbital mechanics, by the Dean of Engineering. This was great inspiration as we later built our own rockets and although we couldn’t exactly build solar sails, it felt like the knowledge helped us and made the construction more enjoyable. Before rocket construction however, we were introduced to microorganisms in space when we swabbed and cultured the organisms living on our own bodies. After construction and design of our rockets –which involved running through the streets of Glasgow looking for a paint shop- we got a coach to Loch Lomond. The location was beautifully scenic, set beside the loch itself with a view on to the mountains and we think the idea of moving location for the launch was a great idea. The weather also held up and so although not all launches were immediate successes, no one minded waiting in the sun. Although some took longer than others, every rocket did eventually launch, climbing to a great height before splitting open to release a streamer. A simple bbq was the perfect end to an exciting, thrill ride of a day. The group work was a great opportunity for the team to interact more closely and get to know each other properly and we look forward to spending the rest of the week together, as cheesy as that sounds. When you think about what you would usually have been doing, you have to appreciate the Space School’s program for its variety and suitable nature for us nerds. Go team Ares! (Exclamation mark for fun)