This is the first log from Patrick Crowley who is currently participating in the Space Studies Program at the NASA International Space University in Ames, California. Patrick was accepted on to the programme after winning the “Young Lighter of the Year 2009”. His winning paper, “A Study of Photosynthesis under Artificial Lighting”, explained how photosynthesis occurs under artificial lighting and outlined the types of artificial lighting best employed for plant growth.

There was intense interest in Patrick’s paper and the level of sponsorship he secured reflected his achievement. Patrick was awarded the Gogarty Scholarship in addition to receiving sponsorship from the International Space University, Department / School in DIT Kevin Street and CIBSE Republic of Ireland.

In addition to the knowledge acquired during Core Lectures, Patrick will also be involved in workshops that will include designing and building a small robotic planetary rover and crew selection for space missions. Who knows, but one day we may get a “Moon Log” from Patrick’s office on the moon or from his planetary rover whilst out for a short Sunday spin.….

Anyway back to earth; read and enjoy Patrick’s first log, he will be keeping in regular contact and updating us on his experiences at NASA. We very much look forward to his future logs.

Kevin O’Connell, Head of Department of Electrical Services Engineering, DIT Kevin Street.

Patrick Crowley, Tommy Nugent, Retired lecturer at DIT Kevin Street and mentor to Patrick. 

 "You can read more about Patrick on page 15 in the April issue of the BS News"