For Release: August 8, 1997

Dave Drachlis
Office of Media Services
(205) 544-0034

Release: 97-215

LOCAL STUDENT CONDUCTS SPACE RESEARCH AT NASA'S MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER

Melissa Kirk, of Greenwood, Mo., is participating in a hands-on educational experience this summer to learn about the U.S. space program and conduct real-life space research.

Kirk, a mechanical engineering student at the University of Kansas, is attending NASA Academy, June 1 - Aug. 8, at Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Ala., to see just what it's like to work for NASA.

"The ten-week program pairs students with NASA researchers to conduct studies in various areas of engineering and space science," said Jim Dowdy, director of University Affairs at Marshall.

Kirk is one of 10 students selected to participate in this summer's NASA Academy at Marshall. Kirk is working with NASA scientist Dr. Jon Rakoczy in the Structures and Dynamics Laboratory at Marshall.

In addition to conducting research, students attend discussions with government and industry representatives to gain insight into space program decision-making and project management.

The NASA Academy at Marshall is sponsored by the Marshall Center and the NASA Space Grant Program.