Students from the SimLE scientific association at Gdansk University of Technology have qualified for the 34th REXUS/BEXUS programme. Under the supervision of experts from the space sector, they will carry out their project, the main aim of which is to analyse the composition of the stratosphere based on volatile chemical compounds.
The programme includes trips to training workshops at European Space Agency facilities and work in laboratories provided by the Gdansk University of Technology. The campaign will conclude with the launch of a payload in the gondola of a stratospheric balloon from the Esrange Space Center in Sweden.
The experiment aims to make a significant contribution to the understanding of atmospheric chemistry and environmental science. By analysing samples taken from the air using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry, students working in the STORMDUST project aim to learn about the chemical compounds in the stratosphere, how they migrate and what impact and relationship they have with the microorganisms there.
