FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 15, 2026
Higher Orbits
Alice Carruth
(575) 639-1113
alice@higherorbits.org
Higher Orbits Brings Go For Launch!
STEM Experience to Midland, Texas
Higher Orbits’ two-day immersive event gives students hands-on access to astronauts, space professionals, and real-world STEM challenges.
MIDLAND, Texas — 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 Midland, Texas on May 27–28, 2026. The two-day event will provide 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 Abell Junior High School, the immersive educational experience will run from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day, with full attendance required for participants. The students will have an opportunity to work with former NASA astronaut Dottie Metcalf-Lindenburger for the duration of the event.
“It is great to be bringing the Go For Launch! program back to the Permian Basin, and continuing our partnership with the Midland Development Corporation, Midland ISD and Chevron,” said Michelle Lucas, Founder and CEO of Higher Orbits. “Space touches nearly every industry on Earth from medicine and agriculture to communications, cybersecurity, manufacturing, and business. 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: May 27–28, 2026
Time: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily
Where: Abell Junior High School
Registration is open for students in grades 8–12. More information about the event and Higher Orbits programs can be found at Higher Orbits Registration Page.
Higher Orbits would like to thank our sponsors Midland Development Corporation, Midland ISD and Chevron for their continued support of this event. We’d also like to thank our supporters including AIAA, Space Tango, AB Emblems, 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
