In U.S., twelve visually impaired high school students got an opportunity to explore careers in rocketry as part of a partnership between N.A.S.A. (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) and the National Federation of the Blind.

The students were part of a weeklong rocket science camp, from July 14-22, 2006, at the federation's Jernigan Institute in Baltimore and N.A.S.A.'s Wallops Flight Facility, Wallops Island, Virginia.

The camp was called ‘Rocket On!’ At the camp, students learnt about rocketry (rocket science) through classes and workshops. The students also developed and built sensors for a payload on a rocket launched from Wallops.

While at Wallops, the students assumed the roles of N.A.S.A. mission control personnel as they conducted the mission. Students also participated in various reviews, practice countdowns, final rocket and payload preparations.

"N.A.S.A. believes every student has endless capabilities, and we try to reach all students. This is the third year N.A.S.A. has used its unique educational resources to support the 'Rocket On!' camp," said John Hairston, the agency's acting assistant administrator for education.

The students used MathTrax software, a calculator that enabled them to visualise data by translating information into an easily accessible text or audio description.

"NASA will continue to explore educational opportunities that compete for the minds, imaginations and career ambitions of America's young people," said Hairston.