A PENRHYN Bay teen is helping foster the next generation of astronauts.

Amelia Stars, 16, is the CEO of her own company MajorTim.space, which she runs from her home and offers workshops across the UK dedicated to encouraging education about space exploration and careers in Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

The company also celebrates pioneering women who have contributed to space travel, and recently held an event in Llandudno - the only in North Wales - to celebrate World Space Week, with a guest appearance via webcast BBC’s Astronauts: Do You Have What it Takes? contestant Dr Jackie Bell.

Amelia, who is home educated, said: “All 12 participants had a fantastic time and t they had such great questions for Dr Bell - it was great to see them making new friends.

“I created MajorTim.space because I felt there is a lack of enthusiasm amongst young people towards STEM subjects and I wanted to inspire them. There is also a definite trend for boys to learn more STEM subjects and I want to show girls can be powerful in STEM.”

The children also had the opportunity to see and examine meteorites including a piece of Mars, as well as taking part in experiments and various activities.

Catrin Moore, a pupil of Ysgol Craig y Don aged eight, said: “I have really enjoyed the day and I want to come again.”

Named in honour of Major Tim Peake, the European Space Agency astronaut and a former International Space Station crew member whom Amelia has met on several occasions, Amelia founded the company in 2016, and has designed every aspect of the business, including its website and activities herself.

Since setting up the business, Amelia has already secured a patron in Al Worden, the command module pilot for NASA's Apollo 15 lunar mission in 1971.

Amelia added: “Al Worden is a lovely person with a great sense of humour, I have known him for three years, and it was an honour when he agreed to be the patron of my website."

For more information on Amelia's upcoming workshops, visit majortim.space.