[image-51] NASA is inviting social media users to apply for credentials to attend a research test of rovers being controlled from the International Space Station and deploying a future lunar antenna concept developed by the University of Colorado at Boulder, as well as briefings and tours of NASA’s Ames Research Center related to the next satellite launching to the moon, the Lunar Atmosphere and Dust Environment Explorer, LADEE.

A maximum of 15 social media users will be selected to attend the one-day event on July 26, 2013, and will be given the same access as news media in an effort to align the experience of social media representatives with those of traditional media. For U.S. citizens active on social media, the deadline to apply is July 18, 2013. All social media accreditation applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

NASA Social participants will have the opportunity to:

• View a live demonstration of rovers in NASA Ames’ Roverscape, being controlled by astronauts on the International Space Station
• Learn about LADEE, NASA’s next mission to the moon
• Visit NASA Ames spacecraft hardware and mission operations facilities
• Find out how anyone can be involved with the LADEE mission and support its science goals!
• Meet fellow space enthusiasts who are active on social media
• Meet members of NASA's social media teams

Registration opens at 7 p.m. EDT on July 16, 2013 for U.S. citizens active on social media only. The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. EDT July 18, 2013.
 

What are NASA Social media credentials?

Social media credentials give users a chance to apply for the same access as journalists in an effort to align the access and experience of social media representatives with those of traditional media. People, who actively collect, report, analyze and disseminate news on social networking platforms are encouraged to apply for media credentials. Selection is not random. All social media accreditation applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Those chosen must prove through the registration process they meet specific engagement criteria.

How do I apply?
The applications opens on July 16, 2013. For U.S. citizens active on social media, the deadline to apply is July 18, 2013. All social media accreditation applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Do I need to have a social media account to apply?
Yes. This event is designed for people who:

• Actively use multiple social networking platforms and tools to disseminate information to a unique audience.
• Regularly produce new content that features multimedia elements.
• Have the potential to reach a large number of people using digital platforms.
• Reach a unique audience, separate and distinctive from traditional news media and/or NASA audiences.
• Must have an established history of posting content on social media platforms.
• Have previous postings that are highly visible, respected and widely recognized.

Users on all social networks are encouraged to use the hashtag #NASASocial. Updates and information about the event will be shared on Twitter via @NASASocial and via posts to Facebook and Google+ on NASA accounts.

What are the application requirements?
Applying indicates your intent to travel to NASA's Ames Research Center in California’s Silicon Valley and attend the one-day event in person. You are responsible for your own expenses for travel, accommodation, food and other amenities. The event will begin at approximately 7:00 a.m. PDT and end before 5:00 p.m. PDT.

Some events and participants scheduled to appear at the event are subject to change without notice. NASA is not responsible for loss or damage incurred as a result of attending. NASA moreover, is not responsible for loss or damage incurred if the event is cancelled with limited or no notice. Please plan accordingly.

NASA Ames is a government facility. Those who are selected will need to complete an additional registration step to receive clearance to enter the secure areas. To be admitted, you will need to show government-issued photo identification (such as a driver’s license or passport) that match the name provided on the application. Those without proper identification cannot be admitted. All applicants must be at least 18 years old.

Can I apply if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Because of the security deadlines, applications are limited to U.S. citizens. If you have a valid permanent resident card, you will be processed as a U.S. citizen. Those who are selected will need to complete an additional registration step to receive clearance to enter the secure areas. To be admitted, you will need to show government-issued photo identification (such as a driver’s license or passport) that match the name provided on the application. Those without proper identification cannot be admitted. All applicants must be at least 18 years old.

Does my application include a guest?
Because of space limitations, you may not bring a guest. Each application provides a place for one person only (you) and is non-transferable. Each individual wishing to attend must apply separately.

What if I cannot come to California?
If you cannot attend in person, you should not apply for a social media credential. You can follow the conversation using the #NASASocial hashtag. NASA will provide updates on NASA, NASA Ames and NASA LADEE social media accounts.

If you cannot make this event, don't despair; NASA is planning others in the near future. Check for future events at http://www.nasa.gov/social.

When will I know if I am selected?
After applications have been received and processed, a notification email will be sent out to inform you whether or not you have been selected for NASA social media accreditation. Those selected will be required to complete an additional step before being accredited. We will send notifications upon approval.

If you do not make the list for a social media accreditation credential, you can still participate in the conversation online.

What if the test date changes or is cancelled?

If the test date changes or is cancelled, NASA may contact the selected users to adjust programming accordingly. NASA will notify applicants of any finalized changes by email.

Attendees are responsible for any additional costs they incur related to any date changes. We strongly encourage participants to make travel arrangements that are refundable and/or flexible.

Does registration for and/or attendance at this NASA Social qualify me for media accreditation?
No, your registration and/or attendance, does not qualify you for news media credentials at NASA now or in the future.

Have a question not answered here? Need more information? Help is available by sending an email to hq-social@nasa.gov.