FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 10, 2026
Media Contact:
Alice Carruth
(575) 639-1113
alice@higherorbits.org
Higher Orbits Celebrates 100th Go For Launch! Event with Landmark Student Experience in Deerfield, Illinois
The milestone program brings astronauts, industry leaders, and students together to inspire the future workforce for the growing space economy.
DEERFIELD, IL- Higher Orbits will celebrate its 100th Go For Launch! event June 29–30, 2026, in Deerfield, Illinois, marking a major milestone in the organization’s mission to inspire students through space-based STEM education, leadership, teamwork, and real-world problem-solving. Hosted at Deerfield High School, and in conjunction with the organization’s 10th Anniversary celebrations, the landmark event will bring together students, astronauts, educators, aerospace professionals, and alumni from across the country for an unforgettable immersive experience.
In a full-circle moment for the organization, the 100th Go For Launch! event will be hosted at the same location and feature the same astronaut mentor, Dottie Metcalf-Lindenburger, as the very first Go For Launch! program, highlighting the enduring impact and legacy of the initiative over the past decade. “I believed in the mission of Go For Launch! from the very beginning because I saw how transformative it could be for students,” said Dottie Metcalf-Lindenburger. “To return now for the 100th event and see how many young people have been inspired, empowered, and connected to future opportunities through Higher Orbits is incredibly meaningful. These students are the innovators, explorers, and leaders who will shape the future of space and our world.”
Since its founding, Higher Orbits’ Go For Launch! program has empowered thousands of students by connecting them directly with astronauts and space industry professionals while challenging them to collaborate on authentic spaceflight-inspired missions and experiments. The 100th event represents more than a numerical milestone — it reflects a decade of building pathways into STEM careers and preparing students for the rapidly expanding global space economy.
“Reaching our 100th Go For Launch! event is a powerful reminder of what happens when students are given access to opportunities, mentors, and experiences that help them see themselves in the future of space exploration,” said Michelle Lucas. “As the space industry continues to evolve into a major economic driver, programs like Go For Launch! are essential for developing the next generation workforce with the creativity, adaptability, communication, and technical skills needed to succeed in the careers of tomorrow.”
Dottie Metcalf-Lindenburger (far right), had their experiment sent to the International Space Station in 2017.
The multi-day program will challenge students to work in teams to design scientific experiments with potential spaceflight applications while developing leadership and communication skills alongside veteran astronauts and aerospace experts. Participants will also gain firsthand insight into the many career pathways connected to space exploration, including engineering, medicine, cybersecurity, manufacturing, communications, business, and research.
Additional highlights of the 100th Go For Launch! event include:
- Hands-on STEM and mission design challenges inspired by real spaceflight operations
- Direct mentorship from astronauts and aerospace professionals
- Opportunities for students to build teamwork, leadership, and presentation skills
The milestone event comes at a critical moment for STEM education and workforce development as commercial spaceflight, lunar exploration initiatives, and emerging aerospace technologies continue to create demand for a highly skilled and adaptable workforce. Higher Orbits remains committed to ensuring students from all backgrounds have access to transformative educational opportunities that prepare them for future success.
Registration is open to all incoming 8th grade- 12 grade students, and event information is available at https://higherorbits.org/events/100th-go-for-launch-event-deerfield-il/. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Organizations and individuals interested in supporting Higher Orbits’ mission can learn more at HigherOrbits.org.
ABOUT GO FOR LAUNCH!
Go For Launch! is Higher Orbits’ flagship experiential education program that uses spaceflight-inspired challenges to engage students in STEM, leadership, teamwork, and
communication. Participants collaborate with astronauts and industry professionals to design experiments, solve problems, and develop skills essential for future careers in the modern workforce.
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.
