Space Foundation Press Releases
Space Foundation and L3Harris Bring Former NASA Astronaut to Brevard Public Schools
BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. — Nov. 12, 2026 — Space Foundation and L3Harris Technologies are bringing Space in the Community (SITC), a weeklong STEM education program, to Brevard Public Schools in Brevard County, Florida, Nov. 16–20, 2026. The program helps students see how skills learned in the classroom can lead to careers in the space industry.
Throughout the week, Space Foundation educators and former NASA astronaut Capt. Tony Antonelli (U.S. Navy, Ret.) will visit middle and high schools in Brevard Public Schools. Antonelli will share insights from his two spaceflights aboard the space shuttles Discovery and Atlantis, during which he helped deliver equipment and supplies to the International Space Station. He logged more than 24 days in space and later held leadership roles supporting NASA’s Space Launch System and Commercial Crew programs. After retiring from NASA in 2015, he held executive positions at Lockheed Martin.
“Thanks to the generous support of L3Harris, we are opening doors for Brevard County students to explore the excitement and endless possibilities of STEM,” said Heidi Vasiloff, Interim Director of Space Foundation’s workforce and education. “Having the opportunity to hear directly from former NASA astronaut Captain Anthony Antonelli is an incredible experience for these students. His journey reminds them that behind every space mission are real people with big dreams, curiosity, and determination. We hope these experiences inspire students to see themselves as part of the next generation of explorers, innovators, and space professionals.”
The L3Harris grant supporting Space Foundation’s SITC program reflects the company’s commitment to advancing aerospace innovation through education and strengthening the space workforce pipeline. The program builds lasting community partnerships that help PreK–12 students become lifelong STEM learners while supporting local workforce development and economic growth. SITC has reached thousands of students across multiple states, helping cultivate the next generation of space industry talent.
“L3Harris shares Space Foundation’s commitment to inspiring the next generation through space exploration and discovery,” said Jeff Hanke, President, Space Systems, Space & Mission Systems, L3Harris. “Programs like Space in the Community play a vital role in cultivating future innovators and explorers by fostering interest in science, technology and space. We are honored to help the Space Foundation bring this valuable program to our local community and help inspire the next generation of STEM leaders.”
“Here on the Space Coast, our students are surrounded by innovation, exploration, and discovery. Through our partnership with Space Foundation and L3Harris, Brevard Public Schools students will have the opportunity to learn directly from astronauts and industry professionals whose experiences bring STEM education to life. These meaningful connections help inspire students to dream big and envision their future in the industries shaping our region and beyond,” said Ms. Tara Harris, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction, Brevard Public Schools.
Journalists are invited to cover the school visit at Madison Middle School, 3375 Dairy Road, Titusville, FL 32796, on Monday, Nov. 16, from 10–11:05 a.m. Opportunities will be available to speak with teachers, students, and Space Foundation and L3Harris representatives. Interviews with Antonelli can be arranged in advance.
A college-focused Community Event will also take place Friday, Nov. 20, from 1–6 p.m. at the Astronauts Memorial Foundation’s Center for Space Education, State Road 405, Building M6-306, Kennedy Space Center, FL 32899. To RSVP or coordinate interviews, contact [email protected].
About Space Foundation
Space Foundation, a nonpartisan nonprofit, brings together every corner of the global space ecosystem. Through year-round programs and events, including its flagship Space Symposium, Space Foundation convenes leaders from government, industry, finance, and education to exchange ideas, build partnerships, and advance the future of space. As a trusted, neutral expert, Space Foundation turns connections into impact. It reinvests proceeds from its events into STEM education, workforce development, and its Discovery Center. Together, these programs help build the talent and leadership that will power the space economy for generations to come.
About L3Harris Technologies
L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customers’ mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security. Visit L3Harris.com for more information.
About Brevard Public Schools
Brevard Public Schools (BPS) serves more than 70,000 students across Florida’s Space Coast and is committed to serving every student with excellence as the standard. As one of the state’s largest and highest-performing school districts, BPS provides students with exceptional academic, career and technical education, and workforce development opportunities that prepare them for success in an ever-changing world. Through strong partnerships with industry, higher education, and community organizations, BPS helps students connect classroom learning with future career pathways.
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Media Contacts:
Mayo Blumberg
Space Foundation
(620) 870-2201
[email protected]
Irene Lockwood
Space and Mission Systems
L3Harris Technologies
(585) 465-3592
[email protected]
Allison Kimmey
Public Relations Coordinator
Brevard County Public Schools
(321) 633-1000 x 11778
[email protected]
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