Mike Mongo's latest update for The Astronaut Instruction Manual

Jun 14, 2015

Back from Havana II:
My 2nd ‘Astronaut Teaching’ Trip to Cuba

Earlier this year, I had the privilege and honor of being a US American space STEM educator to primary students in Cuba. It was an experience I will never forget. While technically, I was teaching students space science—“Tomorrow's jobs are in space!”—in truth, they were teaching me: “Los empleos del futuro están en el espacio!” The photo below captured the moment, one that I hold as a highlight of my professional career:Of course, I fell in love with Cuba. It is only to be expected considering the natural hospitality and generosity of spirit of the people of Cuba. However, little did I anticipate having an opportunity to return anytime soon. 

Sometimes when you least expect it, the best things happen.

So it was with real excitement that on the invite of a friend this past week I jumped at a second opportunity to teach and share in Cuba for a second time this year. My excitement was well-rewarded: I taught in two schools twice over two days to approximately 200 students. Including this class of familiar faces:
Everyone who knows me knows this is like being reunited with family. 

These are all young students who now understand their future holds the possibility of doing whatever career they want in space. “Los empleos del futuro están en el espacio,” and these students know it. In fact, they taught it to me!

Mike Mongo
astronaut teacher


PS big news to share about The Astronaut Instruction Manual—including a completed cover. There really is a lot to tell you about, so stay tuned this week and keep up the good work!