For Release: August 8, 1997

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

Release: 97-218

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

Nathan Stoddard, of Idaho Falls, Idaho, is participating in a hands-on educational experience this summer to learn about the U.S. space program and conduct real-life space research.

Stoddard, a mechanical engineering student at the University of Idaho, 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.

Stoddard is one of 10 students selected to participate in this summer's NASA Academy at Marshall. Stoddard is working with NASA scientist Patrick Hunt 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.