Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

St. Peter Catholic School in DeLand has become one of two schools in Florida to receive a "moon tree" from NASA, out of 2,000 applicants. The loblolly seedling was grown from a seed that traveled 270,000 miles to the moon and back on the Artemis 1 mission in 2022.

"We learn about history in the classroom, but today you’re living history. This tree is going to be here for hundreds of years, generations to come, and you’re part of that today," said Charlotte Funston, St. Peter principal, addressing students on May 29, 2024.

Loblollies have a lifespan ranging between 100 and 300 years. Funston considers it an appropriate legacy for the school and highlighted its significance given that Bishop John Noonan serves as bishop of both the Diocese of Orlando and the moon.

"We’re all part of the tree of life and the moon is part of our life too," Bishop Noonan stated. "I am so blessed to have it as part of our diocese."

The planting event included members of the school's Garden Club. Seventh-grader Sophia expressed her excitement: "This could be a very big thing for humans because we are learning how to put plants and vegetation into space, which can help support life outside the earth."

Isabella, another Garden Club member, added: "It’s spent four weeks in space, and we’re so excited to have it in our school."

The students prepared for this event by digging a hole for the tree and installing a solar-powered rain barrel system for irrigation.

The arrival of the moon tree was inspired by Heather Pattison's third-grade daughter who found a leaf from another moon tree at Kennedy Space Center. After researching NASA's program criteria—focused on suitability for care and educational opportunities—Pattison facilitated St. Peter’s application.

Funston plans to integrate more space science education into school activities following previous trips to Kennedy Space Center and visits from NASA engineers.

"It’s an opportunity to bring in knowledge of space and possibilities for students to realize what they can do with regards to college and career readiness," Funston noted.

She also mentioned preparing students for future careers related to space exploration: "We are preparing students for jobs that don’t exist now," she said, referring to potential expansions as NASA advances its Mars mission plans.

A plaque beside the newly planted tree will read: “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the skies proclaim the work of His hands” (Ps 19:1).

By Glenda Meekins of Florida Catholic Staff

May 30, 2024