New student group takes the topic of space to new heights


A new student-run institute is bringing together groups from across campus, all with one thing in common: a focus on space.

The McMaster Aeronautics and Space Student Institute (MASSI) is a new partnership that aims to bring existing student groups currently involved in space-related initiatives together for collaborative work.

Each group, ranging from NEUDOSE, to the Aerospace and Dive Medicine Interest Group, will continue to operate independently, but will benefit from the support a larger network can provide. For example, members of different groups will be able to take part in design reviews — a standard practice within the space industry.

The Institute, a unique collaboration at McMaster, will also be able to seek funding and sponsorship on a scale that wouldn’t be available to individual teams, and combine material orders for ongoing work.

Students from all faculties and levels of study are encouraged to get involved. The institute will be posting openings for a number of roles, including an executive team and volunteer positions.

“This is an opportunity for campus members from diverse backgrounds to come together as a community over a shared interest,” says Max Lightstone, Chair of MASSI and master’s of applied science student. “By offering opportunities for those from non-scientific backgrounds to engage in space initiatives we hope to encourage scientific literacy and interest.”

Each group includes students from all levels of study as well as faculty members who provide mentorship and guidance for newcomers.

“The greatest example of human collaboration is the International Space Station and MASSI hopes to embody that same spirit to tackle the challenge of space.”

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