Young people from a South Cheshire village enjoyed a special space-themed experience, after speaking live with a NASA representative in America.

31 cubs and scouts aged seven to 14 from the 25th SW Cheshire Bunbury & District Scout Group took part in a 75-minute video call with Operations Manager at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, Dr Dhyan Emmanuel,

The session took place on Thursday 8 October, at the group's Scout hut in Bunbury.

The youngsters learned about life in space, rocket technology and future missions to the Moon and Mars.

They were also encouraged to ask questions, handle space-themed props and sample freeze-dried sweets, giving them an insight into what astronauts eat in space.

Questions included how fast rockets travel, whether football can be played in space and how astronauts go to the toilet.

The opportunity was nearly a year in the making, organised by Scout Section Team Leader, Mac Wrench.

Drawing on contacts made during his time working at an American summer camp through Camp America, Mac worked to arrange the special session.

He said: "As a Scout leader, we strive to give young people opportunities that go beyond the ordinary.

"After nearly a year of planning, seeing their excitement as they spoke directly with NASA made every effort worthwhile.

"I wanted to show them that the extraordinary isn't beyond their reach, that they should dream big, and that curiosity and ambition can take them further than they ever imagined."

The experience also helped the youngsters with their Space Activity Badges.

Scout George said: "It was a really great experience that I'm not sure I would have anywhere else."

The group said the event was an example of how scouting gives young people opportunities to explore new interests, build confidence and learn practical skills.

Cub Frederick added: "It was amazing, and I learnt a lot of facts about the next trip to the Moon and the trip to Mars."

Anyone interested in joining Bunbury Scout Group or volunteering can contact [email protected].

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