A VOLUNTEER from a publicly-funded project to explore part of the moon is encouraging schools in County Durham to get involved with the initiative.

Jett Pease, from Ferryhill, has been accepted as a UK-based volunteer aiming to raise awareness of Lunar Mission One (LM1) in his local area.

If the initiative goes according to plan, a rocket carrying a drill will be sent to the moon in 2024, where it will analyse the composition of lunar rock and could drill about 100m below the surface.

The second phase of the scheme will see the drill deposit a time capsule comprising digital information relating to the theme 'Life on Earth' and physical objects – such as strands of hair.

Mr Pease, aged 26, who is a full-time carer, said: "To be part of a space program that I have contributed to is a honour to me and my family that I’m a part of it.

"With the Rosetta Mission and the landing on a Comet and with Tim Peake being the first full British citizen travelling to the International Space Station, it's a new age of space exploration and science that we all can be a part of.

“I emailed them about a week ago asking about becoming a volunteer.

“I said I didn’t live in London so I couldn’t be part of the office but asked if there was anything I could do from home.

“It is amazing to be on board - this is history in the making.

“I’m not in the space industry, I don’t work for NASA - I’m just an ordinary citizen so to be part of this is an honour.”

Mr Pease hopes to promote awareness of LM1 among schools in County Durham, which can sign up to its pilot education programme.

Call Mr Pease on 07934-521638 or visit lunarmissionone.com to download an education pack.