（この記事は現在英文のみでお読みいただけます）

ELSI booth at the World Space Week exhibition.

As part of World Space Week 2025, the Earth-Life Science Institute (ELSI) at the Institute of Science Tokyo took part in a science exhibition hosted by Laurus International School of Science Tokyo on October 10. The event brought together industry experts and students to explore the wonders of space science and innovation. ELSI was represented by PhD student Courtenay Monchinski, who engaged Laurus students in discussions about the origins of life in our Solar System.
 

The exhibition featured booths from several space-related and healthcare-related organisations, alongside ELSI. Students had the opportunity to interact directly with researchers and engineers, ask questions, and explore hands-on space science demonstrations, from scale model solar system games to telescope technology activities.

Monchinski introduced students to ELSI’s research mission and explained how her own work contributes to understanding the early Earth environment. Her research focuses on the delivery of water to the inner Solar System, a topic that helps scientists explore how habitable planets form and how life-sustaining materials may have reached Earth.

Monchinski with students of Laurus International School of Science.

“I spoke with many curious students who asked deep questions not only about planets and water, but also how life might begin in the universe,” Monchinski reflected after the event. “It was exciting to see such enthusiasm for science at such a young age, and I hope I was able to inspire future researchers and explorers.”

During the event, Monchinski toured the Laurus science facilities, where students are encouraged to pursue inquiry-based learning in science and technology. The exhibition served as a platform for fostering interest in STEM fields and promoting dialogue between educational institutions and the space science community in Japan.

Monchinski with Dr. Paul E. Cizdziel of Laurus International School of Science, and other colleagues from space-related and healthcare-related organisations.

ELSI is committed to supporting educational outreach initiatives that connect cutting-edge research with society. Participation in events like World Space Week helps ELSI share its mission of understanding the origins of Earth and life in the universe while inspiring the next generation of scientists.