Since she was a child, Eleanor Sigrest has been fascinated by rockets.
Her interest has even inspired her to complete research on them.
The aspiring astronaut could find out what it’s like to be on a spacecraft, if she’s able to raise enough money.
When choosing projects for the annual science fair, Sigrest chooses topics that haven’t been heavily researched.
“My goal through my science fair experiments is to not only increase my knowledge but to increase the knowledge of the community around me,” she told What’s Up Prince William.
This year, the Forest Park High School junior is conducting an experiment on Slosh — unwanted movement of fluid in a tank — in microgravity.
Slosh can result in many issues, including decreased accuracy in the fuel gauge.
“So, this causes billions of dollars worth of waste in [the] space industry, because they have to add extra fuel, they have to add extra materials to try to manage the slosh,” Sigrest explained.
To complete her project and compete in the science fair, she must simulate microgravity. Going on a flight in the Vomit Comet is one method.
The flight costs $25,000, funds that the 16-year-old needs to raise by October 4.
Sigrest has created a GoFundMe page to reach her goal.
“I’m mainly just extremely grateful to anyone who’s willing to donate or help share this project with anyone that they’re really willing to share it to, because this is something that I’ve been dreaming about for a really long time,” she said.
