Filipino students' experiment conducted by NASA astronaut

Reach for the Stars Filipino Students' Experiment Soars to New Heights
Heights

The groundbreaking experiment led by students from Rizal Technological Univ
University (RTU) has successfully been conducted onboard the International 
Space Station (ISS) by a NASA astronaut. This remarkable achievement not on
only showcases the potential of Filipino students in the field of space exp
exploration but also highlights the significance of experiential learning.

The Experiment

Developed by third-year Filipino students as part of the 2025 Asian Try Zer
Zero-G (ATZG) competition, the Double Gyroscope experiment was performed by
by astronaut Christopher Williams inside the Kibo module of the ISS on Marc
March 24, 2026. The team behind the experiment – Christopher Tumamac, Ryan 
Andrew Doña, and Rose Ann Cezar – designed the Double Gyroscope to demonstr
demonstrate principles of spacecraft orientation in microgravity.

The Significance

Gyroscopes are spinning devices used to measure and maintain direction and 
balance, essential for spacecraft orientation. The experiment aimed to simu
simulate how spacecraft maintain orientation in space, crucial for satellit
satellite and spacecraft operations. By conducting this experiment onboard 
the ISS, the students demonstrated their understanding of complex concepts 
and applied scientific principles.

The Impact

This achievement is significant not only for the students but also for the 
Philippines' participation in international competitions. Since 2022, exper
experiments from Filipino students have consistently been selected as ATZG 
finalists and carried out on the ISS by astronauts. This trend showcases th
the potential of Filipino students to contribute to space exploration and h
highlights the importance of experiential learning.

The Call to Action

We are very thankful for this opportunity given to us by PhilSA, and we ho
hope more Filipino students will apply in the next batches of ATZG to exper
experience proposing experiments in zero gravity and seeing them carried ou
out, the team said. With results aligning with their hypotheses, this expe
experiment serves as a catalyst for future innovations.

Conclusion

The successful conduct of the Double Gyroscope experiment onboard the ISS i
is a testament to the potential of Filipino students in the field of space 
exploration. As we continue to reach for the stars, it is essential that we
we provide opportunities for our youth to engage in experiential learning a
and develop their skills in this area.

Keywords** NASA astronaut, International Space Station, Rizal Technologi
Technological University, Asian Try Zero-G competition, Double Gyroscope ex
experiment, spacecraft orientation, microgravity, satellite operations.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.