FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 15, 2026
Media Contact:
Alice Carruth
(575) 639-1113
alice@higherorbits.org
Higher Orbits Brings Go For Launch! STEM Experience to Arlington, Virginia
Higher Orbits’ two-day engaging event grants students' hands-on access to real-world STEM challenges, space professionals, and astronauts
ARLINGTON, Virginia – Higher Orbits, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission of promoting Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) will be bringing its acclaimed Go For Launch! program to Arlington, Virginia. This two-day event will be held on July 16-17, 2026, and will allow space enthusiasts in grades 8-12 a unique chance to work side-by-side with astronauts while exploring the world of space.
The program will be hosted at Amazon Headquarters 2 in South Arlington, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. All participants are required to have full attendance on both days of the event. Astronaut Don Thomas will be joining the event, giving students the rare opportunity to work closely with someone who has been to space.
“Higher Orbits is excited to be bringing Go For Launch! back to Arlington, and we are appreciative to Amazon Leo for their continued partnership,” said Michelle Lucas, Founder and CEO of Higher Orbits. “Space touches nearly every industry on Earth. By connecting students directly with astronauts and aerospace professionals, we create experiences that that build confidence, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving skills that prepare them for success in any future career path.”
Participants will also get the chance to learn directly from retired NASA astronaut Don Thomas who has logged over 1,040 hours on four different space flights. His first space mission was the STS-65 Columbia mission, which at the time of the Space Shuttle Program, established a new flight duration record. His second space mission was the STS-70 Discovery, his third space mission was the STS-83 Columbia, and his final space mission was the STS-94.
During the two-day event, students will:
- Design a real scientific experiment with the potential to fly to space
- Participate in teamwork and leadership activities
- Learn directly from astronauts and STEM professionals
- Explore careers in aerospace, engineering, and science
- Compete in a Shark Tank-style presentation challenge
Go For Launch! is a multiday program that encourages students to engage in immersive, project-based activities that bring space to life. With a focus on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), Higher Orbits is dedicated to providing opportunities for students nationwide.
Event Details:
When: July 16-17, 2026
Time: 8 am – 6 pm
Where: Amazon Headquarters 2
Registration Cost: $25 per student
Registration is open to students in grades 8-12, including rising 8th graders and recently graduated seniors. Students must attend the full day on both days of the event.
For more information about this event and Higher Orbits programs can be found at Higher Orbits Registration Page.
Higher Orbits would like to thank our sponsor Amazon Leo for their support of this event. We’d also like to thank our supporters including AB Emblems, Uniphi Space Agency, Space Tango, Space Shirts and AIAA.
ABOUT GO FOR LAUNCH!
Go For Launch! is an immersive STEM and leadership program created by Higher Orbits that connects students with astronauts, scientists, engineers, and space industry professionals. Through hands-on activities and team-based challenges, students gain exposure to space exploration while building communication, collaboration, and leadership skills.
ABOUT HIGHER ORBITS
Higher Orbits is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that uses space to inspire students to pursue STEM fields while building teamwork, leadership, and communication skills. Through immersive, hands-on programs including Go For Launch! and other educational initiatives, Higher Orbits has engaged thousands of students across the country, empowering them to succeed in school, careers, and life.
Learn more at HigherOrbits.org
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