Rainbow Trust successfully launch a teddybear into space to commemorate its landmark year
A space travelling teddybear named ‘Buddy’ was safely recovered today following his launch into the stratosphere at the weekend. Taking place to commemorate Rainbow Trust’s 25th Anniversary, the astrobear reached dizzy heights above the clouds - its journey captured using video stills which show it in pitch black, with the curve of the earth in the background, before its safe return.
The stunt, created in association with Rainbow Trust Children's Charity, Cambridge Spaceflight and mission controller Peter Cameron-Burnett marks a landmark year for the charity.
Peter said: “We are so happy the weather held out and the launch was a success. It’s great to be able to support Rainbow Trust in its 25th anniversary year and get some amazing shots of ‘Buddy’ in space.”
The teddy was named ‘Buddy’ by pupils at Fetcham Village Infant School who won a national competition, supported by acclaimed scientist and TV presenter, Professor Brian Cox.
Rainbow Trust invited schools across the UK to hold a teddy or space themed fundraising day earlier this year in order to be placed into a draw to win the unique opportunity.
Pupils of the winning Fetcham Village Infant School will be presented with the bear in October, together with a video of its adventures, to keep as a memento.
Alexa Follen from Rainbow Trust, speaking about the event said: “We are incredibly grateful to Cambridge University Spaceflight for their assistance and especially to Peter Cameron-Burnett and team for their diligent and tireless work which made this space launch a reality.”
If you would like to see pictures of Buddy in Space.
