Obama Welcomes Local Students to White House Stargazing

President Barack Obama spoke to 150 Washington D.C. area middle school students on the importance of scientific discovery and space exploration at the White House Wednesday evening. The president invited the schoolchildren to a night of stargazing on the South Lawn, as part of a broader federal push to promote math and science education.

The president, joined by Fist Lady Michelle Obama and Director John Holdren of the Office of Science and Technology, addressed the crowd before turning his eyes to the constellation Lyra, via the assistance of a large, black telescope stationed next to the podium.

Among the dignitaries in the crowd were Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin, space shuttle astronaut Sally Ride – the first American woman in space – and space shuttle astronaut Mae Jemison -- the first African American woman in space.

Malia and Sasha Obama also joined the crowd on the South Lawn for the evening's festivities. 

The stargazing event was held in commemoration of the 400^th anniversary of Galileo’s first astronomical observations with a telescope in 1609.

Like the United States, more than 135 countries will host events this year to promote scientific discovery and space exploration.  

In his brief remarks, the president encouraged the students to work hard in school and, in turn, promised to provide the critical resources necessary to prepare youth for careers in the scientific field.

“I want to be a president that makes sure you have the tools and the teachers you need,” he said.

The president, who awarded national science medals to several top researchers and innovators at a White House ceremony Wednesday, asked the young crowd:  “Which one of you are going to come back here to claim your prize?”

The president ended by stressing the importance of innovation and calling for a constant pushing of the bounds of scientific understanding.

“We need your restless curiosity…don’t let anybody tell you there isn’t more to discover,” he said.

WRGW News' Jared Pliner, reporting from the White House