The power of a strong narrative

Inspiring students through literature, Science Days will give away copies of the book that traveled to space. (The original book will remain among the stars forever, so every time you look up at the stars, wave and say, “Hello Henry!”)

The picture demonstrates the steps to taking the book “Henry the Astronaut” to space in rocket launch (this photo is a courtesy of Jonna Ocampo)

​Once upon a time, there was a teddy bear named Henry. Unlike any traditional plush friend, Henry dreams of becoming an astronaut and touching the stars. One night, when he closes his eyes and falls asleep, Henry dreams. A rocket ship takes him to an imaginary world full of wonder where planets can talk. Henry lands on the moon and travels to all the planets in our solar system. It's the start of his journey and his dream of becoming an astronaut.   
 
The book was created by Jonna Ocampo, and it's way more than a children's bedtime story. Henry, the astronaut, represents the dream of many youngsters worldwide wanting to explore the mysteries of the universe. To show these countless dreamers that the stars are not that far away, on September 2nd, Firefly Aerospace's Alpha rocket will gain a new member: Henry the bear! The once upon a time children's story is no longer a dream. Tomorrow, Henry becomes an Astronaut.  
 
The book will be a part of Firefly Aerospace's inaugural mission set for September 2nd at 6 p.m. PST. In collaboration with the Michaelis Foundation for Global Education, signed and personalized books will be distributed to 30 Science Days participants at its next event in 2022 as a reminder that anyone can reach for the stars (even a teddy bear!). 
 
"In 1969, Neil Armstrong left his footprints on the moon, showing that sky was never the limit for mankind. Our goal is to take his example and show to the next generation that they too can leave their mark in space" – Jefferson Michaelis. 
 
To learn more about the Michaelis Foundation and its activities, including the international collaboration with Jonna Ocampo of CD-SEAS Mission Microgravity, please visit: http://www.michaelisfoundation.org/
Watch the rocket launch and chat along at https://www.youtube.com/everydayastronaut/live
 
- Luma Keily
MFGE International Correspondent