NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Image above: These two groups are in charge of the challenge. Credit: NASA

If you have ever dreamed of being part of the space program, this could be your chance. The Science in Space Challenge allows you to plan an investigation for a future space mission.

The Science in Space Challenge is for U.S. K-12 classrooms. This challenge is sponsored by NASA and the Pearson Scott Foresman Publishing Company.

So What Do I Have to Do?
First, ask your teacher to go to the Web site. Then you and your classmates brainstorm. If you were to study science or technology in space, how would you do it?

But I'm Not a Rocket Scientist
Stumped for ideas? Watch some of the Liftoff to Learning videos, first. See the kinds of investigations that have already been done in space. One of them was called "Toys in Space." The purpose of it was to see how everyday toys work in microgravity.

We've Got a Great Idea, Now What?
Explain the investigation. Think like a scientist: plan each step. Follow all of the rules and send it in. Your teacher can follow the guidelines at this Web site. All entries are due June 3, 2005.

A panel from NASA and Pearson Scott Foresman will select two proposals. One will be from grades K-6; the other from grades 7-12. The selected teachers/classrooms will be announced on September 6, 2005. The classrooms' teachers and school principals will be flown to Florida. They will get to see a Shuttle launch.

If your investigation is chosen, a NASA astronaut will perform it in space. You will be able to watch as they conduct your investigation on television or on the Internet. The selected entries may even be published in a Scott Foresman Science Textbook.

Start planning now! This could be your first chance to work with NASA.

NASA and Pearson Scott Foresman want you to "See Learning in a Whole New Light."