Emporia State to connect students with the International Space Station via amateur radio
Emporia, KS (10/28/2025) — Emporia State University is about to take one giant leap into the stars with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students from Emporia and across Lyon County to talk in real time to astronauts aboard the International Space Station via amateur radio in spring 2026.
In partnership with ARISS, the Amateur Radio on the International Space Station program, which promotes STEM learning opportunities and education about space exploration and satellite communication, Emporia State will be one of only four schools selected to participate in this extraordinary opportunity to speak live with the space station.
Another key local partner, the Emporia Amateur Radio Society, will provide education and expertise as well as facilitate the ham radio connection with the ISS.
The proposal to include ESU as part of this program is the work of faculty and staff including Erika Martin, associate professor in the School of Science and Mathematics; Daphne Mayes, STEM outreach director; Mark Brown, Peterson Planetarium director; and Alexandra Hayes, outreach and engagement coordinator for the Prophet Aquatic Research and Outreach Center.
"We are over the moon with this opportunity to connect our community directly with astronauts orbiting above Earth and learn about amateur radio and space science along the way," said Martin.
ESU faculty and staff will collaborate with schools, venues and local businesses throughout the City of Emporia to provide educational activities and workshops leading up to the contact event.
Martin added, "Speaking live with the International Space Station is more than a conversation; it is a reminder that STEM is not distant or abstract, but something we can all reach - because here, in our community and university, we are already reaching for the stars."
The specific date for contact has yet to be determined. Additional information will be shared once it is available and related activities are scheduled. Emporia State invites everyone to join in this stellar opportunity by visiting emporia.edu for updates.
About Emporia State University
Emporia State University offers a range of academic programs through its institute and seven schools: Applied Health Sciences, Business & Technology, Humanities & Social Sciences, Interdisciplinary Studies, Library and Information Management & Library and Archives, Science & Mathematics and Visual and Performing Arts, along with The Teachers College.
ESU stands out for its innovative education practices. It ensures accessible education by offering in-state tuition rates to full-time undergraduate students from all lower-48 United States. Additionally, full-time undergraduates benefit from flat-rate tuition - students enrolled in 12 or more credit hours with at least one credit hour on campus pay a flat rate.
For more information on how to build your future at Emporia State University, please visit www.emporia.edu.
Emporia State University
Gwendolynne Larson, ESU director of media relations, (620) 341-5528, glarson1@emporia.eduShare this Story
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