To mark World Space Week 2026, EMA-Espaço will bring the magic of space exploration, scientific discovery, and adventure to students on the islands of Faial and Pico through a series of educational activities specially designed to spark young people’s curiosity and interest in the Universe. The initiatives will take place at EBI da Horta and ES Manuel de Arriaga, as well as at EBS das Lajes do Pico, EBS da Madalena, and EBS de São Roque do Pico on Pico Island, offering hundreds of students a unique opportunity to engage with fascinating topics in space science. The guest for this edition is researcher Vera Fernandes, a renowned expert in the fields of meteorites and planetary science, who will share stories, experiences, and insights derived from her research work. Key scheduled sessions include: Hunting for Meteorites on the Antarctic Plateau and Mountains Primarily aimed at students in the third cycle of basic education (ages 12–15), this session invites participants to embark on a scientific expedition to the planet’s most remote continent. Students will discover how meteorites help scientists unravel the history of the Solar System and learn about the work involved in collecting them across Antarctica’s vast, icy landscapes. The experience also includes observing and handling actual meteorite samples. Adventures in the Solar System Designed for students in the first cycle of basic education (ages 6–10), this activity offers an interactive journey through the planets, moons, and other celestial bodies that make up our Solar System. Through a playful and participatory approach, young students are invited to explore space—stimulating their imagination and scientific curiosity—in an experience complemented by the observation of meteorites. With this initiative, EMA-Espaço reinforces its commitment to promoting scientific culture and space knowledge in the Azores, inspiring new generations to look at the sky with curiosity, a critical spirit, and a desire to discover more about the Universe around us. For, between islands and stars, dreams are born that can go further.
