out of this world
10-YEAR-OLD'S INVENTION BROUGHT TO LIFE
W
hat challenges do astronauts face when they’re in a rocket ship? That’s what Masonic Heights student Madeline Calappi was asking herself when she dreamed up a utensil helmet for use in outer space. After all, astronauts can’t have their fork floating away when they have mac and cheese to eat, right? Calappi’s problem-solving skills were noticed, as her invention was one of only four ideas chosen to be brought to life out of 784 total entries in this year’s Operation LiftOff: Little Inventors MISD Mission Moon. STARBASE One, a nonprofit youth program utilizing STEM education, created the helmet using CAD design and 3D printing. The process began on May 13 when Calappi met the makers via Zoom and discussed her utensil helmet idea and planned how to create her vision. The conversation covered the design, materials “MADELINE IS A and colors. ONE-OF-A-KIND KID.” "My favorite color is purple. I'd like for the fork, -REBECCA CALAPPI knife, and spoon to be silver," Calappi said. She wanted Velcro on the helmet, exactly what NASA uses, too. According to Mark Muzzin, STEM education consultant, her invention is a big deal. He said that nine districts and 27 teachers participated. Calappi created her submission in Debbie Bloomhuff's fourth grade class during the 20212022 school year. Her classmates, which included best friend Sierra Grant, loved her concept. On June 9, a special celebration was held to honor Calappi and three other young inventors from Macomb County whose ideas were also being brought to life. "It looked cool,” says Calappi of her helmet prototype. “I liked it. It was way more than I hoped it would be." Madeline Calappi’s mother, Rebecca Calappi, said that the entire family – she, her husband and son – are very proud of Madeline. She explained the experience as “an amazing opportunity for her to grow and gain confidence.” “Madeline is a one-of-a-kind kid,” Rebecca Calappi says. “She is true to herself, determined and caring. This program certainly met its goal with her as she is excited to further Top: Madeline Calappi's idea on paper explore science and engineering projects. Combine that Left: Madeline Calappi, left, with her desire to be a DJ, and she could be the first person Middle with Rick Simms and Jill Brodzik from STARBASE One – Simms and Brodzik to throw a dance party on another planet!” created the helmet prototype For more information about Starbase, go to www. starbaseone.org. To check out ideas from other young people, Middle Right: Madeline Calappi with her mother Rebecca Calappi check out littleinventors.org/ideas
16 the shores
Photos courtesy of Rebecca Calappi
