About Spaceward Bound New Zealand
Bringing real space science into schools across New Zealand since 2015.
Who we are
SpacewardBound NZ is delivered by Milky-Way.Kiwi, in collaboration with the New Zealand Astrobiology Network.
Meet the instructors
Hari Mogosanu
Hari is a TEDx-featured astrobiologist and space sciences educator who interned at NASA Ames in 2014 and trained for Mars as an analog astronaut. Hari has a background in biological sciences, space studies and security.
Sam Leske
Sam is a space science educator, former Air Force pilot and intelligence professional who is now pursuing his passion for astrophysics and stars.
Collaborators
Michaela
Dobson
Michaela is an astrobiologist and space sciences educator who interned at NASA JPL in 2024 and has a background in geology. She is also part of the NZ team that studies the origin of life on Earth.
Michaela Dobson has contributed to SpacewardBound NZ programmes and science outreach initiatives, including student and teacher engagement activities connected to astrobiology and space science.
Our approach
Why space science?
Space science combines astronomy, geology, biology, physics, engineering, and exploration in a way that naturally encourages curiosity, teamwork, and critical thinking.
WHERE THIS CAME FROM
SpacewardBound NZ began in 2015, inspired by the original NASA Spaceward Bound programme developed at NASA Ames Research Center.
It builds on the original model, where teachers and scientists worked together in field-based expeditions.
In Aotearoa, this has evolved into a programme supporting both students and teachers through classroom experiences, field trips, and professional learning. Since 2015, we have worked with schools across the country, delivered teacher workshops and seminars, and collaborated with international scientists, including through NZ Astrobiology Network initiatives.
Real-world space science connections
Astrophysics Olympiad Training
Worked with national-level students, preparing them for international competition through real-world space science experiences.
NASA Field Programme — Rotorua Region
Teachers took part in a field-based space science programme at Ōrākei Kōrako and Wai-O-Tapu, working alongside NASA and University of Auckland scientists to explore astrobiology in real-world environments.
Astronaut Visit — Hutt Valley High School
Students at Hutt Valley High School had the opportunity to meet and speak with NASA astronaut Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper, connecting classroom learning with real-world space experience.
WHY SCHOOLS WORK WITH US
- Delivered nationwide since 2015
- Programmes tailored to NZ schools
- Curriculum-linked and adaptable
- Scientists and educators working together
New Zealand does space
Links to future careers
According to MBIE, the space sector has grown by 53% since a 2019 report, and contributed nearly $2.5 billion to New Zealand’s economy in 2023-24. (MBIE, 2025)
The space sector needs future workers; your students can be among these people. We can show them how.
