Students at Macarthur Girls High School, in collaboration with One Giant Leap, will explore the feasibility of growing native Australian plants in extraterrestrial environments, specifically comparing Wattle Seeds that have been aboard the International Space Station with those that have not, and investigating if they will grow in simulated Martian soil, Lunar Soil, compared against Earth soil.
This hands-on activity will challenge students to apply concepts of biology, geology, and environmental science, directly enhancing their understanding of plant biology, soil science, and space exploration.
The experiment will promote critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and experimental design skills as students hypothesise, observe, and analyse growth outcomes in different soil conditions. By connecting curriculum content to real-world and futuristic applications, the activity aims to foster sustained enthusiasm for STEM subjects and encourage continued participation in science programs beyond Science Week.
Additionally, this project offers exciting opportunities for community engagement by inviting neighbouring schools to join the experiment and collaborate in data sharing and joint presentations.
This initiative supports long-term STEM engagement by stimulating curiosity, teamwork, and a deeper appreciation for space science and environmental sustainability.