UCCS Space Systems Lab Hosts Artemis II Launch Watch Party
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Connecting Students to the Future of Exploration
As excitement for NASA’s Artemis II mission spread across the country, the UCCS AIAA student chapter turned the moment into more than a watch party - it became a live learning experience. Nearly 50 students, faculty, and community members gathered to witness humanity’s return to deep space for the first time in over 50 years. The event combined celebration and hands-on education, giving attendees a front-row seat to one of NASA’s most significant missions since Apollo.
The evening was highlighted by the presence of astronaut Duane “Digger” Carey and his wife, Cheryl Carey. A former NASA astronaut and STS-109 pilot, Carey shared insights into human spaceflight, helping students connect more personally with the mission. Artemis II-themed donuts from Dunkin’ added a fun, celebratory touch.
At its core, the event reflected the mission of the UCCS Space Systems Lab - turning inspiration into experience. Students weren’t just watching Artemis II; they were witnessing history in the making. As the first crewed mission beyond low Earth orbit since Apollo, Artemis II is sending astronauts around the Moon and back, testing systems needed for future lunar landings and missions to Mars.
Aerospace Junior Bo Barthomew got poetic about the event. He wrote this:
When the countdown hit zero - ignite!
Cheers echoed with wonder and might.
Past Earth’s gentle glow,
To the Moon we all go -
Exploring the dark with our light!
“The UCCS Space Systems Lab is where our students design, build, and operate real space systems,” said Associate Teaching Professor Lynnane George. “They’re seeing the same challenges they study in class happening live. This mission highlights what they may be working on someday.”
Professor Steve Tragressor added, “It doesn't get much better than being with a group of fellow space exploration enthusiasts to count down the final seconds to liftoff on a hugely historic flight!”
“Events like this help bridge the gap between the classroom and real-world space missions. “I want students to see that this is real and that they can be part of it,” George said. “If you want to work in space, this is what it looks like and it’s happening right now!”
