IJSEP Conference Celebrates Space Research, Science Days 10-Year Milestone, and Women in Space Science

​Space Coast, Florida — June 22, 2026 — The International Journey Spaceflight Experiments Program (IJSEP) Conference brought together students, teachers, scientists, astronauts, industry leaders, and education partners for an inspiring celebration of student-led space research, STEM education, and global collaboration.

The event was also part of a broader effort to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of Science Days, connecting a decade of free educational global outreach with a new generation of students developing ideas for the future of space exploration.

During the conference, students and educators had the opportunity to present their space experiment projects, exchange ideas, and engage in meaningful conversations with real space scientists and industry professionals. For many students, presenting their work and receiving feedback from experts transformed space research from a distant dream into something they could begin pursuing now.

A special milestone of this year’s event was that, for the first time, the conference featured an all-female scientist presentation lineup, highlighting the powerful role of women in science, research, and space exploration. Distinguished participants included Dr. Jamie Foster, Dr. Christina Johnson, and Dr. Jonna Ocampo, whose presentations helped students better understand the connections between space research, life sciences, microgravity, exploration, and future human spaceflight.

The program also recognized the important participation of Dr. Gary Stutte, whose mentorship and scientific expertise continue to inspire students engaged in space biology and research.

“This conference was a beautiful reminder that inspiration becomes powerful when students can see themselves reflected in the people leading science and exploration,” said Carla Michaelis, Co-Founder and Education Advocate at The Michaelis Foundation for Global Education. “To celebrate student research, the 10-year anniversary of Science Days, and the participation of outstanding women scientists in the same event was very meaningful. It showed our students that the future of space belongs to everyone with curiosity, courage, and the opportunity to learn.”

The conference also welcomed Steve Diamond, Director of Global Space Strategy with Honeywell; Alfredo Martinez from Australia; school principal Karen Bishop from Trinidad and Tobago; and Emily Byers and Hannah Burnside from Jonathan Alder School District, reflecting the growing international reach of IJSEP. Brevard Career and Technical Education (CTE) also participated with an expo table and brought students and teachers to the event, strengthening the connection between education, workforce development, and space-related careers.

One of the most memorable highlights was the opportunity for participants to interact with NASA astronauts Mike Baker, Hoot Gibson, Norm Thagard, Susan Kilrain, and Nicole Stott. These conversations gave students and educators a direct connection to the human side of space exploration, including stories of missions, teamwork, perseverance, and discovery.

The IJSEP Conference was made possible through the support and collaboration of Amazon, KSCIA – International Space Academy, and International School, whose shared commitment to education, innovation, and access helped create an unforgettable experience for students and teachers.
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Through events like the IJSEP Conference, students gain more than knowledge. They gain confidence, purpose, and a clearer vision of how their ideas can contribute to the future of science, research, and space exploration.

For more information about future Space Day initiatives and educational collaborations, visit:  ScienceDays.org
Media Contact: Ana Shantal ​