In September 2026, the first aerospace camp in El Salvador, called 'Mars Frontier', will take place. It will be a camp aimed at children aged 11 to 15, led by Salvadoran scientists with professional experience both in El Salvador and abroad, at the Micro Macro Laboratory facilities of Don Bosco University. During the camp, participants will have the opportunity to experience firsthand what it is like to work as a team to achieve a space mission, while facing dynamic and fun scientific challenges.

Patty Ortiz is an aerospace engineer and the founder and executive director of Kids Need Space, with over 22 years of experience at NASA and in the aerospace industry. She specializes in project management, flight operations, risk management, and thermal systems for the International Space Station and advanced flight research programs. Patty offers motivational conferences, fireside chats, and panel discussions. She shares an inspiring story of resilience that motivates both students and professionals. Additionally, she has been a keynote speaker at leadership and mental health events.

KNS annually impacts more than 25 educational institutions in California and El Salvador. Our goal is to expand this program to more US states and countries in Latin America.

Patty is a mentor for the Carey Mission, an initiative focused on the design and construction of El Salvador's first satellite, which is being carried out by university students from the Key Institute and is currently underway.

InspiraSTEM is a STEM conference in El Salvador organized by Salvadoran scientists and engineers living all around the world. The program is designed for university students pursuing STEM careers to receive technical courses, learn about research experience, and explore academic and professional opportunities. The founder of KNS will be an aeronautics instructor at InspiraSTEM 2026, which will take place from September 19 to 22, 2026, at Don Bosco University. The founder of KNS was the keynote speaker at InspiraSTEM 2025.

Design and testing of a wall panel for a lunar habitat, focused on thermal insulation and micrometeorite protection. Dates: From May 15 to July 15, 2026. Patty Ortiz is the principal investigator responsible for this research internship. This is an 8-week engineering research internship.