The second week of the Southern Hemisphere Space Studies Program (SHSSP) 2025 unfolded with a captivating momentum. It began with the final series of insightful core lectures, covering a rich tapestry of topics that reflected the program’s commitment to interdisciplinarity. From Space Mission Design to Moon and Future Exploration, Astrobiology, International and Domestic Regulations of Launches, Communicating Space, and Disruptive Technology and Innovation, participants delved into diverse realms of space studies. Esteemed experts, including Joseph Pellegrino, James Green, Charley Lineweaver, Kerrie Dougherty, Justin Cohen, and Emeline Paat Dahlstrom, brought their knowledge to life, leaving a lasting impression.
Monday afternoon marked the beginning of the much-anticipated rocket workshop conducted by Joseph Pellegrino. Divided into six groups, participants were introduced to the fundamentals of rocketry and immediately set to work on constructing their own designs. As the day transitioned into evening, they enjoyed a special night session hosted by Dr. Yi.


Participants building their rockets during the Rocket Workshop
Tuesday brought a distinguished lecture on The Origin of the Universe by Charley Lineweaver, a session that inspired wonder and curiosity. On Wednesday, the program hosted the highly anticipated Astronaut Panel. Over 300 attendees gathered to hear the remarkable stories of the International Space University’s alumnae Soyeon Yi, South Korea’s first astronaut, and Katherine Bennell-Pegg, Australia’s first female astronaut, both have indeed been classmates at ISU’s Space Studies Program SSP09 session in Silicon Valley 16 years ago. The evening concluded with a reception, where participants connected with the speakers on a more personal level.

Thursday was the final day for rocket assembly, with participants fine-tuning their designs ahead of Saturday’s launch. On Friday night, the program’s cultural diversity shone brightly during the second cultural night, featuring presentations from Japan, Mongolia, Brazil, Colombia, India, Switzerland, and Iran.

Finally, Saturday arrived, and with it, the thrilling culmination of the rocket workshop. At the Mallala Motorsport Park, participants gathered alongside local rocketry experts to witness the successful launches of all six student-built rockets. Adding to the excitement, the staff launched their own creation. Among the highlights, Planetshine was crowned the most aesthetically beautiful rocket, while Sunrise took home the award for best technical performance.


And so, the second week of SHSSP 2025 concluded—a week filled with fulfilled dreams, conquered challenges, and an abundance of excitement for the adventures that lie ahead in the program’s third week.
Written by Alba Badia Rifà, SHSSP25 Teaching Associate and PAL