In Week 6, our Year 7/8 students had an incredible opportunity as they took part in the Mission to Mars program in Melbourne. Despite the 6am departure, their energy and enthusiasm carried them through an action-packed day of immersive STEAM learning. Students stepped into the role of astronauts on the Martian surface, collecting data on radiation, temperature, and atmosphere, while also gathering rock core samples for analysis. Meanwhile, their classmates in the control room ensured the mission ran smoothly, making critical decisions to keep the astronauts safe. At the end of the day, the two crews reunited to use very expensive scientific equipment to analyse their findings, successfully piecing together the history of the Martian surface they had “landed” on. It was an inspiring experience that combined teamwork, problem-solving, and cutting-edge science—truly a day our students will not forget!