ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., Sept. 22, 2009 -- The Northrop Grumman (NYSE:NOC) Foundation kicked off the fourth year of the Weightless Flights of Discovery Program today in Albuquerque, launching 30 teachers into weightlessness. The program provides educators with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to prepare for and participate in micro- and zero-gravity flights during which they test Newton's Laws of Motion with a variety of planned experiments.
Math and science teachers from New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado and Texas took part in the program, with the goal of inspiring and preparing the next generation of scientists, mathematicians and engineers -- critical areas where the U.S. has fallen behind globally.
The United States is experiencing a shortage of college graduates in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines, a negative trend that bodes ill for the nation's industries that depend on talented scientists and mathematicians. Because studies have indicated most children make the decision to pursue math and science education and careers during middle-school, Northrop Grumman developed the Weightless Flights of Discovery to engage teachers and key influencers in the lives of students during these crucial years.
The Northrop Grumman Foundation supports diverse and sustainable programs for students and teachers. These programs create innovative education experiences in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Editor's Note: Video, hi-res photos and teacher interviews available upon request.
CONTACT: Jennifer Herrera
Rebecca Rakitin
M. Silver Associates
954-765-3636
Jennifer@msilver-pr.com
Rebecca@msilver-pr.com
Tom Henson
Northrop Grumman Corporation
(310) 201-3458
thomas.henson@ngc.com
