Athlone student’s innovative research wins SciFest 2021

A student of Our Lady's Bower school in Athlone was named SciFest STEM Champion 2021 at the SciFest National Final over the weekend.

Clare Reidy, who is in sixth year, received the top award for her innovative research project which explored cosmic radiation protection by investigating effective building materials for future exploration of Mars.

Her victory will see her represent Ireland at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Atlanta, Georgia next May.

Cosmic radiation consists of high-energy particles travelling through space. Clare’s project investigated whether bricks made from Martian soil (regolith) could be used to block cosmic radiation.

The Athlone student discovered that these bricks could offer effective protection against cosmic radiation and constructed an optimum brick using Martian regolith simulant as a primary component. Her discovery supports the use of Martian regolith bricks to protect future inhabitants of Mars.

Congratulating Clare and all the participants, Minister for Education Norma Foley said: “SciFest continues to bring together some of the best and brightest minds of future generations and I am delighted to see so many young people who are passionate about STEM fields. These subjects are crucial for equipping the young people of today with the problem-solving and critical thinking–skills needed to meet the challenges of tomorrow”.

“The level of innovation gives great cause for optimism now and into the future. I’d like to congratulate Clare for winning this award and applaud all those students who have participated in this year’s competition. I’d also like to commend the parents, teachers and mentors who have helped students throughout the process,” she added.

There were further congratulations from Sheila Porter, SciFest CEO, who sent her best wishes to Clare for winning this year’s SciFest National Final.

“We received a tremendous number of entries this year and the standard was as high as we’ve come to expect from SciFest participants. At SciFest, our goal is to encourage a love for STEM subjects from an early age so it is really heartening to receive so many high-quality entries. The challenges posed by climate change and COVID-19 show the fundamental importance of science and that’s why it is vital that we continue to foster inquiry-based learning amongst students. In that vein I’d like to offer a sincere thanks and congratulations to all SciFest participants, their teachers and parents for all their hard work and continued enthusiasm for STEM.”

SciFest is the largest, most inclusive STEM fair programme for second level students in Ireland. The competition is free to enter and open to everyone across the island of Ireland, no matter their geographical location, background or circumstances.

Now in its 16th year, SciFest is dedicated to encouraging and developing students’ interest in STEM in a fun and engaging way.

This year the SciFest National Final took place on a bespoke virtual platform which was custom designed for the awards and allowed students, teachers, and parents from around the country to view and participate in this year’s event.

As well as the awards ceremony the platform also hosted a series of presentations from national and international speakers.