Arthur C. Clarke Innovation in Education Award

“Arthur C. Clarke’s legacy bridges the worlds of the arts and the sciences. His work ranged from scientific discovery to science fiction, from technical application to entertainment. As an engineer, as a futurist, and as a humanist, Clarke has influenced numerous artists, scientists, and engineers working today, and through his broad body of work, and through the organizations keeping his legacy alive like the Clarke Foundation and this Institute, he continues to inspire future generations around the world.”

In 2017, Dr. Joseph Pelton, a close friend to Arthur C. Clarke and a founding board member of the Arthur C. Clarke Foundation, worked with Challenger Center to establish the Arthur C. Clarke Innovation in Education Award to honor his late friend. The Award recognizes a Challenger Learning Center that implements a new innovative program or project that impacts students learning, supports teachers, or promotes creativity.

This year, the Buehler Challenger & Science Center in Paramus, NJ was the recipient of the Arthur C. Clarke Innovation in Education Award for its STaR (Science, Technology, and Rocketry) program for special needs students. The program, created to reach students with specific needs and capabilities, teaches students about robotics, 3D printing, rocketry, water filtration, hydroponics, speed and motion, as well as technology within the simulated space Mission. STaR was designed to blend technology and critical thinking skills, using space exploration as the motivation for individuals with varying ability levels.

Buehler Challenger & Science Center was acknowledged for their STaR program at Challenger Center’s annual conference in Washington D.C. by Dr. Pelton who presented the Center with the award and a $400 monetary contribution.

About Dr. Pelton

Dr. Pelton has impacted the field of advance telecommunications technology and regulations. He played a key role in the establishment of the International Space University and has been a leader in several university research centers on space and satellite technology. He also was the founding president of the Society of Satellite Professionals and is the author of over 50 books. Dr. Pelton continues to inspire the next generation with his contribution to STEM fields and by delivering educational lectures to audiences all around the world.