From Orbit to Classroom: NASA Astronaut to Answer Student Questions Live from ISS

NASA Astronaut Chris Williams to Take Questions from Florida Students During Live Space-to-Earth Call

BREAKING — NASA astronaut Chris Williams will answer prerecorded science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) questions from students while aboard the International Space Station (ISS) on Friday, May 8, at 11 a.m. EDT.

The 20-minute Earth-to-space call will stream live on NASA’s Learn With NASA YouTube channel. This marks a rare opportunity for students in Florida to interact directly with an astronaut orbiting 250 miles above Earth.

“It’s an incredible moment when students realize they’re talking to someone in space,” said Sherri Owens, a spokesperson for Lake County Schools. “It sparks curiosity and shows that STEM careers are within reach.”

Host School and Viewing Details

The event is hosted by Aurelia M. Cole Academy in Clermont, Florida, and is open to students in grades K-12 as well as community members. Media interested in covering the event must RSVP by 5 p.m. Thursday, May 7, to Sherri Owens at 352-253-6522 or owenss@lake.k12.fl.us.

“This is a unique chance for our students to see real science in action,” said a school spokesperson. “We hope it inspires the next generation of explorers.”

Background

For more than 25 years, astronauts have continuously lived and worked aboard the ISS, conducting research that benefits life on Earth and prepares for deep-space missions. The station serves as a testbed for technologies needed to explore the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

Communication between the ISS and NASA’s Mission Control Center in Houston is maintained 24/7 through the Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) Near Space Network. This infrastructure enables live video calls like Friday’s event.

Research aboard the station includes experiments in biology, physics, and materials science. These investigations support NASA’s Artemis program, which aims to land astronauts on the Moon and eventually send humans to Mars.

What This Means

This downlink is more than a Q&A session — it’s a catalyst for STEM engagement. By connecting students with an astronaut in real time, NASA hopes to demystify space travel and encourage young people to pursue careers in science and engineering.

“Every question a student asks is a step toward solving the challenges of tomorrow,” said a NASA education specialist. “We’re planting seeds for the Artemis generation.”

For more information on NASA in-flight education calls, visit NASA’s STEM on Station page.

Last updated: May 5, 2026