FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – May 20, 2026
Higher Orbits
Alice Carruth
(575) 639-1113
alice@higherorbits.org
Higher Orbits Brings Go For Launch! STEM Experience to Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan
Higher Orbits’ two-day immersive event gives students hands-on access to astronauts, space professionals, and real-world STEM challenges.
SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. — Higher Orbits, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring students through space-based STEM, leadership, and teamwork programs, will bring its nationally recognized Go For Launch! program to Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan on June 16–17, 2026. The two-day event will provide aspiring astronauts and space enthusiasts in grades 8–12 with a unique opportunity to dive into the world of space exploration while working alongside astronauts and industry professionals.
Hosted at Lake Superior State University, the immersive educational experience will run from 8
a.m. to 6 p.m. each day, with full attendance required on both days for all participants. The students will have an opportunity to work with former NASA astronaut Greg H. Johnson for the duration of the event.
“Programs like Go For Launch! help students see themselves as future scientists, engineers, innovators, and leaders,” said Michelle Lucas, Founder and CEO of Higher Orbits. “Space touches nearly every industry on Earth and many of the career fields that drive Michigan’s economy, including engineering, manufacturing, robotics, healthcare, environmental science, cybersecurity, aviation, and skilled trades. By connecting students directly with astronauts and aerospace professionals, we create experiences that build confidence, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving skills that prepare them for success in any future career path.”
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! uses space exploration as a platform to inspire curiosity and help students strengthen communication, collaboration, and critical-thinking skills. The program has impacted thousands of students nationwide through hands-on learning experiences that connect education with real-world applications.
Event Details:
When: June 16–17, 2026
Time: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily
Where: Lake Superior State University
Registration Cost: $50 per student
This event 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.
Registration is now open. More information about the event and Higher Orbits programs can be found at Higher Orbits Registration Page.
Higher Orbits would like to thank our partners and sponsors the Michigan Space Grant Consortium, Lake Superior State University, Headwaters North, Moore Trosper Construction Company, Sault Ste. Marie Economic Development Corporation, Chippewa County Economic Development Corporation, Superior Forensic Engineering LLC, Soo Co-op Credit Union, U.P. Engineers & Architects, Inc., Cloverland Electric Cooperative, and Central Savings Bank. We’d also like to thank our supporters including AIAA, Space Tango, AB Emblem, Uniphi Space Agency and Space Shirts.
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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Media Contact: Alice Carruth, COO, Higher Orbits
Email: Alice@HigherOrbits.org
Phone: 575-639-1113
