EL SEGUNDO, Calif. -- Honoring the memory of astronaut Ellison Onizuka, Space Systems Command (SSC) recently inspired the next generation of innovators at the annual Onizuka Space Day at El Camino College on March 14, 2026. Alongside guests from NASA and other space-based industries, the event featured engaging STEM activities from captivating speeches to the popular egg drop experiment, all aimed at sparking a passion for science and technology.
“Engaging students and parents with hands-on activities like the straw rocket build leaves a positive and lasting impression about the Space Force,” said SSC STEM director Nicole Palmer.
Throughout the day, SSC’s STEM Outreach team hosted two classroom sessions exploring the realms of space, rocketry, and satellites. Each of the SSC-led groups included 35 students and 15 parents for an hour-long immersive learning experience. Students' curiosity was evident through their insightful questions on topics ranging from the theoretical concept of white holes to the practicalities of how long it takes to build a rocket.
The engagement continued outdoors, where Los Angeles Air Force Base Space Base Delta 3 Heritage Center officials provided a glimpse into the history of the United States Space Force in Los Angeles. A particularly compelling exhibit featured space debris, a hydrazine tank that carried a satellite into orbit and spent seven years in space, and an impressive array of rocket and satellite models.
Another highlight was the hands-on Pitsco straw rocket activity. Guided by instructors from SSC STEM Outreach and Public Affairs, students constructed and launched their own rockets aimed at a target display featuring Low, Medium, High, and Polar Earth Orbits. The activity provided a fun and practical lesson in orbital mechanics.
“We extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who participated and contributed to making SSC’s time at Onizuka Space Days a memorable occasion for our community’s young space enthusiasts,” said Nicole Tibbetts, SSC STEM specialist who led the classroom discussions.
SSC offers STEM outreach programs throughout the year. Interested educators may reach out via email to SSC.STEM@spaceforce.mil