All astronauts have to have a valid radio license. Here ESA astronaut André Kuipers is learning to use an amateur radio in preparation for his first mission in 2004.

ARISS, or Amateur Radio on the International Space Station, is an organisation that promotes contact with the Space Station through basic radio technology.

The opportunity to speak with an astronaut highlights how spaceflight is inspiring children to consider a career in science, while illustrating the principles behind everyday phenomena.