Challenger Learning Center receives Community Project Funding

U.S. Rep. Frank Mrvan and Challenger Learning Center of Northwest Indiana board members announced that the Hammond-based center will receive $963,000 in federal funding.

The Challenger Learning Center will use the funds to install and upgrade its mission control simulators. The center offers STEM education opportunities for students throughout Indiana.

“With this federal funding, we can enhance our resources and broaden our impact, bringing cutting-edge STEM education to even more students,” said Lara Bates, the center's executive director, in a press release . “This investment in our mission control simulators will ensure that we continue to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers and innovators.”

The project is set to begin in the coming weeks. It includes the refurbishment of the center’s two mission control rooms. The center will update furnishings and the computing and audio and visual equipment that drives the simulated missions.

The new simulators will align with NASA’s mission objectives. Students will be able to participate in moon, Mars, comet, and Earth-based simulated space missions.

“I am privileged to collaborate with local community leaders to acquire new technology and expand educational development opportunities for children throughout Northwest Indiana,” Mrvan said.

The Challenger Learning Center of NWI serves about 15,000 students annually. The center was founded in 1999. It carries on the educational mission of the Challenger 51L crew members who lost their lives.

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