RALEIGH, N.C. (October 13, 2015) - “I believe it’s time to take another walk on the moon!” Those were the words of Dr. Harrison “Jack” Schmitt at a special presentation today at Wake Technical Community College. Dr. Schmitt should know – he’s a NASA astronaut and former U.S. Senator who went to the moon in 1972 aboard Apollo 17. He’s still very passionate about space exploration and stressed its importance for the future.

 

Dr. Schmitt, who is also a respected geologist, pilot, writer, and businessman, shared his experiences as the only Apollo scientist-astronaut as part of a STEM Speaker Series at Wake Tech, hosted by the Mathematics and Sciences Division. He gave two presentations to an excited audience of students, faculty, and staff. He described soil and rock samples collected during the mission and explained their significance in understanding the moon and its relationship to Earth. He also signed copies of his book, Return to the Moon: Exploration, Enterprise, and Energy in the Human Settlement of Space.

 

STEM education at Wake Tech helps students build a foundation for exciting, rewarding careers in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics and assume leadership roles in their chosen professions and communities. At Wake Tech, STEM education extends through the College Transfer, Health Sciences, Applied Engineering and Technologies, and Computer Technologies programs.