Technical Requirements

You will conduct the mission in your school or other nearby facility using web conferencing, such as Skype with a web cam or videoconferencing equipment, such as Polycom or Tandberg.

You will need one computer for every two students. These computers must be connected to the Internet

For more technical details read below:

What is Needed

• Videoconferencing system (a computer with a web cam at a minimum)
• 4 computers per team- each with a mouse
• Network/Internet connection for all computers
• LCD projector for use with videoconferencing equipment

Note on laptop use: It is strongly recommended to double check that the batteries are fully charged and to have two spare computers on the side-- already booted up-- in case a battery fails during the mission. This is a common occurrence due to the high use of the wireless modem.

The videoconferencing system permits Mission Control to see the students during the mission. A computer projection device and a large screen located in the front of the room permits the students to see the Chief Medical Officer.

The videoconferencing system can be a dedicated videoconference unit such as Polycom or Tandberg, or a computer equipped with a webcam, a microphone, speakers, and videoconferencing software such as Skype (for Mac’s or PC's).

If you have a standalone videoconferencing system you have to make sure it is connected using IP. If you are using ISDN lines, we’ll require a bridging system.

If you have a computer-based videoconferencing system, and the computer is a Mac or PC, you can install Skype (free) from the Internet.
To download go to: Download Skype

Connection Procedures

H.323 IP Videoconference System: Get the IP number from the Challenger Learning Center –enter it into your videoconferencing system and dial.

For Skype: —Get Skype username form the Challenger Learning Center and add it to your Skype contact list. Place video call to the CLC Skype account from your Skype account.

For additional help or support, contact the Challenger technology coordinator, Mr. Dan Murphy, dmurphy@cet.edu This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ..