FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 15, 2026
Media Contact:
Alice Carruth
(575) 639-1113
alice@higherorbits.org
Higher Orbits' Galactic Golf Event Raises More Than $30,000 to Support Landmark 10th Anniversary and 100th Program Event
GLENVIEW, IL — June 2026 — Higher Orbits is proud to announce that its annual Galactic Golf fundraiser, held at The Glen Club in the Chicagoland area, raised more than $30,000 to support the organization's mission of inspiring students through space exploration, leadership development, and STEM education.
The successful event brought together golfers, supporters, industry leaders, and members of the space community for a day of friendly competition and philanthropy. Three former NASA Astronauts joined the event and played with other participants. Nicole Stott, Greg 'Box' Johnson and Mike 'Bueno' Good all played to support the cause. Funds raised will directly support Higher Orbits' upcoming milestone celebrations, including the 10th anniversary of the organization’s flagship Go For Launch! program, and 100th Go For Launch! event, both taking place later this month.
Astronauts Greg “Box” Johnson, Nicole Stott, and Mike “Bueno” Good with Higher Orbits CEO Michelle Lucas.
"We are incredibly grateful for the generosity and enthusiasm shown by everyone who participated in Galactic Golf," said Michelle Lucas, Founder and CEO of Higher Orbits. "This event is about much more than golf, it's about investing in the next generation of explorers, innovators, and leaders. The support we received will help us continue creating life-changing opportunities for students across the country."
Higher Orbits extends its sincere appreciation to the golfers, as well as the sponsors and community partners whose support continues to fuel the organization's growth and impact. A special thank you to Tech-Max, Scot Forge, SMR Strategic Investments, RBC Wealth Management, Wintrust Commercial Bank, Plano Pins, BMG, and On The Run Photo for their continued support in making this event, and its impact, possible.
Tech-Max Machine Inc. CEO and President Richard Malek along with employees and
Astronaut Mike “Bueno” Good. Images by On The Run Photography. More available here https://ontherunphotochicago.pixieset.com/2026galacticgolfouting/
As Higher Orbits prepares to celebrate a decade of impact and its 100th event, the organization remains committed to expanding access to transformative STEM experiences and connecting young people with astronauts, aerospace professionals, and industry leaders.
Higher Orbits extends its gratitude to event sponsors Tech-Max Machines Inc., Scot Forge, Veilent, SMR Strategic Investments, Vzable Education, RBC Wealth Management, , Wintrust Commercial Bank, GPM MFG INC., Flowserve, AB Emblem, Plano Pins, BMG, Chicago Dogs, Albanese Candy and On The Run Photography for their continued support in making this event, and its impact, possible.
For more information about Higher Orbits and upcoming programs, visit HigherOrbits.org.
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
