June 08, 2023

Deadline Nears for Institutions Seeking Historic NASA Artifacts to Enrich STEM Programs

W With the deadline looming, various institutions including schools, universities, museums, libraries, and planetariums find themselves under pressure to submit their applications in order to secure historic NASA artifacts. The final day to seize this opportunity is fast approaching on June 30th, as eligible institutions vie for a chance to participate in the much-anticipated 60th screening of the prestigious NASA Artifacts Module. This exclusive opportunity is specifically tailored to enhance STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) programs and promises to enrich the educational experiences of the chosen institutions.

The artifacts available for loan hold great significance, not only due to their association with technological achievements and advancements but also in expanding humanity's understanding of the universe and featuring important or well-known personalities. This extensive collection consists of thousands of items, ranging from decommissioned programs and science instruments to small hardware that has journeyed through space, offering a fascinating glimpse into the rich history behind NASA's scientific and technological endeavors.

…NASA's Artifacts program offers an opportunity to encourage the next generation of science, technology, engineering, and math students – the Artemis Generation – and many other space enthusiasts, with these priceless artifacts to share the agency's awe-inspiring accomplishments…

Lauren Katz, the exhibits and artifacts program manager at NASA, expressed her excitement about inspiring the next generation of STEM students and space enthusiasts through the Artifacts program. Katz stated, "NASA's Artifacts program offers an opportunity to encourage the next generation of science, technology, engineering, and math students – the Artemis Generation – and many other space enthusiasts, with these priceless artifacts to share the agency's awe-inspiring accomplishments." She emphasized the simplicity of the online application process available to eligible institutions and urged interested parties to seize this unparalleled event. Katz added, "We have a simple process online now for eligible institutions to secure their chance to participate in this unparalleled event. We hope many apply!"

Recognizing the significant role NASA has played in shaping the nation's history, the agency aims to make artifacts available for STEM educational outreach activities and displays, benefiting a diverse range of individuals. Over the past decade, since 2009, NASA has loaned more than 13,000 artifacts from its extensive collection to organizations across all 50 U.S. states, instilling a sense of wonder and curiosity about space exploration.

Institutions that have submitted applications for the NASA Artifacts Module can expect to receive notifications of their status in July, following the application deadline. Successful recipients, referred to as custodians, will be required to cover the costs associated with packaging, handling, and shipping of the allocated artifact. This ensures the safe transportation and display of these invaluable items as they continue to inspire and educate the public about NASA's remarkable accomplishments.

Institutions interested in securing a piece of space history and contributing to STEM education are encouraged to visit the official NASA website to access the application form and submit their entries before the imminent deadline. This is a unique opportunity to bring the wonders of NASA to their institution and ignite the passion of future scientists and engineers.

Posted in News and tagged News, NASA, Artifacts, STEM Programs, Artemis Generation, USA
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