The Cactus Jack Foundation and Space Center Houston showcased science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) designs created by Houston Independent School District students on December 19, marking the culmination of an eight-week engineering program that launched in October.

Held at Space Center Houston, the Official Visitor Center of NASA Johnson Space Center, the program paired high school students with NASA engineers and delivered an immersive, engineering-focused curriculum. Students worked in design teams and engaged in the full engineering process, moving from initial brainstorming and computer coding to prototyping, testing, and refining their solutions.

Throughout the program, participating students tackled real-world challenges associated with space habitation, including water scarcity, power generation, and sustainable habitat design. Final projects presented during the showcase included an astronaut vital-monitoring helmet, a lunar water filtration system, a lunar exploration rover, and a habitat structure designed for food preservation in space.

The December 19 showcase brought students together with STEM professionals and community leaders, including Travis Scott, to present their final designs and explain the problem-solving approaches behind their work. Retired NASA astronaut and Space Center Houston Chief Science Officer Megan McArthur was also in attendance, offering support and insight as students shared their innovations.

Through the collaboration, the Cactus Jack Foundation and Space Center Houston provided educational resources across multiple STEM disciplines, helping students develop critical thinking and technical skills applicable to future careers in engineering, design, and space exploration.

Following the student presentations, participants and their families were invited to experience Galaxy Lights presented by Wellby Financial, concluding an evening that celebrated student achievement, creativity, and the promise of Houston’s next generation of STEM leaders.