Nasa and the Department of Energy have come together to offer two virtual events for middle and high school students next week.

On Monday morning, Nasa will offer students a virtual tour of its launch facility at Wallops Island in Virginia.

The site was used in May to launch the four-stage Black Brant XII rocket – which was visible from Bermuda.

On Tuesday morning, students will be able to take part in the Northrop Grumman Education Launch Forum, which will feature a presentation by Ricky Arnold, an educator and astronaut who spent time on the International Space Station.

Both events are free of charge and hosted by the Department of Energy.

Walter Roban, the Minister of Home Affairs, said: “Bermuda has enjoyed a special relationship with Nasa since the advent of space exploration in the 1960s.”

“We encourage our local middle and high schools students and teachers to take advantage of these free and exciting events.

“If you are curious about space, this is the perfect opportunity to explore your curiosity in an interactive way.”

Interested people can register by e-mailing energy@gov.bm before 5pm on Friday and links will be sent prior to the start of the event.

Monday’s virtual tour will begin at 10.30am and end at 11.30am, while Tuesday’s forum will run from 10.30am to noon.