Jack Nelson

Kia ora, my name is Jack Nelson and I have a passion for space science, where I love to understand how and why things work in regards to all things space.

From a young age I have had a fascination with the intricacies of earth, and the vast expanse of space. When I was in intermediate I was impacted by hearing about the countless factors that must be perfectly balance in order for human life to exist. This created my desire to know more.

I am currently a Year 13 student and Head Boy at Trident High School in Whakatane, where I was born and bred. I am also Captain of our 1st XV and rugby is another one of my passions. This year I am taking physics, chemistry, earth ocean and space science, and metal technology, having completed level 3 calculus and statistics in 2017. I have also undertaken the University of Auckland MAX calculus course (mathematics acceleration and extension) this year, completing it concurrently with my NCEA courses.

I am extremely honoured to be able to attend the European Space Camp in Andoya, Norway, as one of two students from New Zealand. This experience will enable me to interact with like minded students from around the world, along with top European rocket scientists, to help further consolidate my passion for space science. This incredible opportunity will help me to understand, develop and launch a rocket in collaboration with approximately 20 other students. We will attend lectures and workshops that will assist us in completing our mission. I am extremely excited about constructing and analysing a rocketry propulsion system, and then participating in the launch of the rocket.  

In the future I would absolutely love to work in the area of space science, as an aerospace engineer or in a related role, working with the likes of Rocket Lab. I am thankful for the incredible opportunities I have been able to experience through Royal Society Te Apārangi.