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By Chinenye Anuforo
For a few unforgettable minutes in Abuja, Earth and space were bridged by the voices of young Nigerians. At the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) headquarters, the next generation of scientists and dreamers spoke directly to NASA astronaut Zena Cardman aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
The event the first of its kind in Nigeria was more than a technological feat. It was a powerful symbol of how science can inspire.
“This milestone is designed to nurture curiosity and ignite the passion of our students,” declared NASRDA’s Director General, Dr. Matthew Adepoju, who described the live ISS link-up as a record-breaking stride in Africa’s space journey.”
Gathered from 20 schools across the Federal Capital Territory, the students’ questions reflected both wonder and ambition: How do astronauts sleep in zero gravity? What does Earth look like from space? Can artificial intelligence and robotics make space exploration safer?
Cardman, speaking from more than 400 kilometers above the planet, fielded each one with patience and insight. Her answers drew gasps, applause, and, in some cases, a proud smile from students who could hardly believe they were part of such a rare dialogue.
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The programme was moderated by international space educators Stefan Dombrowski of Belgium and John Sygo of South Africa. It also featured a presentation by Mr. Tope Owolabi of NASRDA’s Department of Physical and Life Sciences, who outlined how space science impacts daily life through earth observation, satellite technology, and even medical research.
Dr. Adepoju used the occasion to commend the leadership of President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Geoffrey Nnaji, noting their roles in advancing Nigeria’s space ambitions. He also applauded the programme coordinator, Mrs. Joy Olayiwola, and the team at GeoApps Plus Limited for making the event a reality.
Mr. Emmanuel Onwuabuariri, Managing Director of GeoApps Plus Limited, reiterated, praising Adepoju’s leadership and assuring that “future editions will be bigger and more impactful.”
The day closed with certificates of participation handed out to schools. But what many students carried home was far more valuable than paper, it was a spark of possibility.
“I asked a question about artificial intelligence and robotics in daily space operations,” one student said proudly. “I can’t wait to tell my classmates that I spoke directly to an astronaut.”
That spark, NASRDA hopes, will grow into the flame of future careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. And perhaps, one day, it will be a Nigerian voice speaking back from orbit, not as a student in Abuja, but as an astronaut on the International Space Station.
