Folks here in Midlands are quite proud of Columbia native and former astronaut, Major General Charles Bolden. His many accomplishments are highlighted at Columbia's Challenger Learning Center. There students can go on their own galactic voyage.
It's an 'Out of this World' experience, taking place right in Columbia. On Monday several students counted down to liftoff at the Challenger Center.
Eau Claire High School student Joshua Langford is an intern at the center. Langford, like former astronaut Charles Bolden, isn't afraid to dream big. The high school junior wants to become an Astrophysicist.
"They have been helping me out with my future," said Joshua Langford.
Sixth grader Darryl Peoples has his own flight plan. The 12-year-old wants to be a surgeon someday. And he's ready to take his goals to the next level.
"I can believe about anything, about becoming an astronaut, or a doctor or a lawyer," said Peoples. "Just about everything."
"From our mission today I can bring my teamwork and efforts out into the real world to help me," said 7th grader Tarnisha Thomas.
Thomas knows the simulated mission is preparation for bigger things down the road.
"You can do all things if you put your mind to it," said Thomas.
The students agree when they come to the Challenger Center, they're being challenged to work hard and dream big. Because it can literally take you out of this world.
Nearly 14,000 students visit the center each year.
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