CASA, Columbia Aeronautics and Space Association, is a truly unique program housed on the campus of Hickman High School, Columbia, Missouri, USA.   The largest student run space simulation in the nation, it uses an aerospace theme to provide a multidisciplinary learning experience which incorporates not only aerospace concepts, but also a knowledge of English, mathematics and science. The program utilizes themes in context curriculum which allows students to experience aerospace principles first hand, and develop life skills such as teamwork, responsibility, and leadership.

     In 1988 the Columbia Aeronautic and Space Association was created as an after-school activity by teacher Pat Daugherty at Rock Bridge High School in Columbia.  The first CASA mission involved a total of 15 students, four as astronauts.  These astronauts lived and worked on a mock lunar habitat. 

    In 1991 the CASA program was moved, under the direction of program director Jim Kyd, to Hickman High School, also in Columbia. Located in an old high school auto shop, CASA has grown to include 150 high school students and many students of all ages from around Mid-Missouri in the program’s annual aerospace simulation.

            The program is based upon the curriculum provided in high school aerospace technology classes within the Columbia Public School system. Throughout the school year students are able to explore new concepts and principles in math, science, and even sharpen their writing and thinking skills in English and civics lessons.

            Students begin each school year with instruction in aerostatics, aeronautics, and aerospace, and progress to working with CASA`s student-built replica of the International Space Station. In addition, students work in groups to complete upgrades of the program’s facilities to enhance the annual space simulation. Mentors from area businesses and the aerospace industry work with these groups of students, providing their expertise and knowledge of the intricate systems and complex aerospace principles students are studying.

            The year culminates each spring with a six-day, five night aerospace simulation, in which students from sixth grade on up converge upon the CASA facility and participate in a true experience in education. Student astronauts ranging from kindergarten to college are on the space station as medical officers, scientists, and pilots. Mission Control is manned from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. each day and behind the scenes are the ninjas, production and public affairs. Besides broadcasting over the local school channel on Mediacom to about 70,000 people in Columbia, we also have streaming video capabilities over the internet thanks to help from Morenet.