NASA Education Express Message Feb. 19, 2015
New Educational Materials Available at NASA.gov
Are you looking for a lesson plan that combines mathematics and space science? Do you need a set of images of objects in our solar system? Or maybe you’re hunting for hands-on engineering projects to challenge your students. NASA Education has you covered!
The following items are now available for downloading.
NASA Education Brochure — All Educators
NASA Education has a vision to advance science, technology, engineering and mathematics education using NASA’s unique capabilities. This brochure explains the four initiatives for achieving that vision. Learn how you can get involved.
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/
Space Math VIII Educator Guide – Grades 5-12
Students apply problem-solving, algebra, geometry or trigonometry skills to a selection of 49 real-world problems involving Earth and space science. Each word problem includes background information. One-page teachers’ answer keys accompany the one-page assignments.
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/
Space Math IX Educator Guide — Grades 5-12
This collection of activities is intended for students looking for additional challenges in the mathematics and physical science curriculum. The subjects of the problems include spacecraft, rovers and meteorites. Mathematical topics include algebra, geometry and calculus. Each word problem has background information. One-page teachers’ answer keys accompany the one-page assignments.
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/
Our Solar System Lithograph Set — All Grade Levels
This lithograph set features images of the planets, sun, asteroids, comets, meteors and meteorites, the Kuiper Belt and Oort Cloud, and moons of the solar system. General information, significant dates, interesting facts and brief descriptions of the images are included.
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/
NASA’s BEST Next Generation Activity Guide – Technology Demonstration Missions – Grades 5-8
This activity guide includes nine hands-on engineering projects focusing on the engineering design process and real-world science, technology and mathematics.
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/
Year of the Solar System — Real World Math — Grades 6-12
This collection of activities allows students to use mathematical concepts from fractions to calculus as they learn about asteroids, comets, planets, craters, planetary rings and many more space science topics.
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/
Looking for more? NASA’s new Educational Resource Search Tool can help you find lesson plans, posters, educator guides and other materials to supplement your science, technology, engineering and mathematics curriculum. Search hundreds of resources by subject, grade level, type and keywords.
To check out the new search tool and begin your educational resource hunt, visit http://www.nasa.gov/education/
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Space Shuttle Thermal Protective Tiles Available for Educational Use
NASA invites eligible U.S. educational institutions and museums to request space shuttle thermal protective tiles and other special items offered on a first-come, first-served basis while quantities last. Organizations previously allocated thermal protective tiles may request an additional three tiles.
There will be a nominal shipping fee that must be paid online with a credit card. To make a request for special items online, visit http://gsaxcess.gov/htm/nasa/
Questions about this opportunity should be directed to GSAXcessHelp@gsa.gov.
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Help NASA Find New Planetary Systems — Become a Disk Detective!
Help NASA find new disks, homes of extrasolar planets, by classifying images from NASA’s Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer telescope and other observatories. In this citizen science project, you’ll view animated images of disk candidates and classify them, distinguishing good candidates from galaxies, asteroids and image artifacts. This project, suitable for elementary students through expert adults, will yield targets for the James Webb Space Telescope and publications in professional scientific literature.
This project is ongoing and expected to run through 2018. For more information and to start hunting for planets, visit http://www.diskdetective.org/.
Questions about this opportunity should be directed to Marc Kuchner at Marc.Kuchner@nasa.gov.
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Free Education Webinars From NASA Educator Professional Development
NASA Educator Professional Development is presenting a series of free webinars open to all educators. Join NASA education specialists to learn about activities, lesson plans, educator guides and resources that bring NASA into your classroom.
Magnetospheric Multiscale Mathematics
Audience: Pre-service, In-service, Home School and Informal Educators of Grades 5-8
Event Date: Feb. 19, 2015, at 5:30 p.m. EST
Participants will learn about the Magnetospheric Multiscale Mission set to launch in March 2015 and the mathematics-based educator guide associated with the mission. Participants will learn about the mission, get an overview of the lesson and engage in discussion about classroom implementation.
https://connect.its.txstate.
NASA Is With You When You Fly: Flying With Bernoulli
Audience: Pre-service, In-service, Home School and Informal Educators of Grades K-8
Event Date: Feb. 23, 2015, at 7 p.m. EST
Did you know that NASA is with you when you fly? Learn about energy transfer as well as motions and forces as you discover hands-on, standards-aligned mathematics, science and engineering activities, each demonstrating the Bernoulli Principle. Make real-world connections with NASA research and airplanes flying today.
https://connect.its.txstate.
Exploring Our Earth: A View From Space
Audience: Pre-service, In-service, Home School and Informal Educators of Grades 4-12
Event Date: Feb. 24, 2015, at 6 p.m. EST
This “Earth-based” webinar integrates science, technology, engineering, mathematics and geography, or STEM-G, with Earth observations, remote sensing, and maps as we explore Earth with the unique perspective from space. NASA missions and curriculum resources are integrated for a better understanding of Earth and the processes that shape it.
https://connect.its.txstate.
Rocket Scientists Write?
Audience: Pre-service, In-service, Home School and Informal Educators of Grades K-12
Event Date: Feb. 25, 2015, at 6 p.m. EST
Participants in this webinar will get an overview of language arts lessons and resources available within NASA education materials. Discussion will include modification and customization of lessons.
https://connect.its.txstate.
Robotic Arm
Audience: Pre-service, In-service, Home School and Informal Educators of Grades K-5
Event Date: Feb. 26, 2015, at 6 p.m. EST
Explore the use of robotic arms and how they function like real human arms. Robotic arms are used to move equipment and supplies, and assist the astronauts on the International Space Station. During this session, participants design a robotic arm and participate in a weightlifting challenge.
https://connect.its.txstate.
Questions about this series of webinars should be directed to Steve Culivan at Stephen.p.culivan@nasa.gov.
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Call for Abstracts: 66th International Astronautical Congress
NASA announces its intent to participate in the 66th International Astronautical Congress, or IAC, and requests that full-time U.S. graduate students attending U.S. universities respond to this “Call for Abstracts.”
The IAC — which is organized by the International Astronautical Federation, or IAF; the International Academy of Astronautics, or IAA; and the International Institute of Space Law, or IISL — is the largest space-related conference worldwide and selects an average of 1,000 scientific papers every year. The upcoming IAC will be held Oct. 12-16, 2015, in Jerusalem, Israel. NASA’s participation in this event is an ongoing effort to continue to bridge NASA with the astronautical and space international community.
This “Call for Abstracts” is a precursor to a subsequent submission of a final paper, which may be presented at the 66th IAC. Student authors are invited to submit an abstract regarding an original, unpublished paper that has not been submitted in any other forum. A NASA technical review panel will select abstracts from those that have been accepted by the International Astronautical Federation. This opportunity is for graduate students majoring in fields related to the IAF research topics. Students may submit technical (oral) presentations and/or posters. Students may submit abstracts that are co-authored with their Principal Investigators. However, the student must be the “lead author,” and only the student will present at the IAC. Students must be available to travel to the conference to represent NASA and their universities. Students must be U.S. citizens, attending a U.S. university, who plan to enter a career in space science or aeronautics. Pending the availability of funding, graduate students selected by NASA to participate in the IAC will be considered for subsidy funding from NASA.
Many students and professors are currently involved in NASA-related research that could be considered for this submission. Students submitting abstracts are strongly encouraged to seek advice from professors who are conducting NASA research and/or from NASA scientists and engineers. Abstracts must be related to NASA’s ongoing vision for space exploration and fit into one of the following IAC categories:
— Science and Exploration — Systems sustaining missions, including life, microgravity, space exploration, space debris and Search for Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence, or SETI
— Applications and Operations — Ongoing and future operational applications, including earth observation, communication, navigation, human space endeavors and small satellites
— Technology — Common technologies to space systems including astrodynamics, structures, power and propulsion
— Infrastructure — Systems sustaining space missions including space system transportation, future systems and safety
— Space and Society — Interaction of space with society including education, policy and economics, history, and law
The criteria for the selection will be defined according to the following specifications:
— Abstracts should specify purpose, methodology, results, conclusions and areas for discussion.
— Abstracts should indicate that substantive technical and/or programmatic content is included.
— Abstracts should clearly indicate that the material is new and original; they should explain why and how.
— Prospective author(s) should certify that the paper was not presented at a previous meeting.
Abstracts must be written in English, and the length should not exceed 400 words. Tables or drawings are not allowed in the abstract.
NOTE: If you plan to seek assistance from NASA, you must submit to the International Astronautical Federation and to NASA.
— Submit your abstract to the IAF at their website www.iafastro.org by Monday, Feb. 23, 2015 (14:00 CET).
— Submit your abstract to NASA at http://iac.nasaprs.com no later than 11:59 p.m. EST on Friday, Feb. 20, 2015.
IAC Paper Selection
Submitted abstracts will be evaluated by the Session Chairs on the basis of technical quality and relevance to the session topics. Selected abstracts may be chosen for eventual oral or poster presentation. Any such choice is not an indication of quality of the submitted abstract. Their evaluation will be submitted to the Symposium Coordinators, who will make acceptance recommendations to the International Programme Committee, which will make the final decision. Please note that any relevance to the Congress main theme will be considered as an advantage.
The following information must be included in the submission: paper title, name of contact author, name of co-author(s), organization(s), full postal address, phone, email of the author and co-author(s). Abstract should specify purpose, methodology, results and conclusions and should indicate that substantive technical and/or programmatic content, as well as clearly indicate that the material is new and original and explain why and how.
Please check the IAF and the IAC websites (www.iafastro.org and www.iac2015.org) regularly to get the latest updates on the Technical Programme.
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Family Day Events at Smithsonian’s Air and Space Museum
The Smithsonian’s Family Day event series celebrates the diverse ethnic and cultural communities that have contributed to aviation and space exploration. Events will commemorate historic and current contributions through presentations and activities for the entire family. The events are free and open to the public.
African American Pioneers in Aviation
Feb. 21, 2015, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. EST
National Air and Space Museum in Washington, District of Columbia
Celebrate the significant contributions African-Americans have made to flight and space exploration despite the overwhelming obstacles they had to overcome. Visitors will enjoy presentations, hands-on activities and stories. They may have the opportunity to meet astronauts, fighter pilots, and others who will share stories of their challenges and accomplishments. Attendees will also learn about inspiring historic figures like Bessie Coleman through re-enactments or story times.
http://airandspace.si.edu/
African American Pioneers in Aviation
Feb. 28, 2015, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. EST
National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia
Celebrate the significant contributions African-Americans have made to flight and space exploration despite the overwhelming obstacles they had to overcome. Visitors will enjoy presentations, hands-on activities and stories. They may have the opportunity to meet astronauts, fighter pilots, and others who will share stories of their challenges and accomplishments. Attendees will also learn about inspiring historic figures like Bessie Coleman through re-enactments or story times.
http://airandspace.si.edu/
Women in Aviation and Space
March 14, 2015, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. EST
National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia
From the days of the earliest pilots to today’s space program, women have made significant contributions. Celebrate the incredible contributions of women in aviation and space exploration at the “Women in Aviation and Space” Family Day. During this event, visitors will have the opportunity to meet female role models and learn about the women who inspired them.
http://airandspace.si.edu/
Questions about this series of events should be directed to the Visitor Service line at 202-633-2214.
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Free Smithsonian’s Stars Lecture Series
Curious about icy bodies in the outer reaches of our solar system, the effects of space junk on deep-space observation, the latest discoveries about the origins of the universe and new ways galaxy formation is mapped? Come to the Smithsonian’s Stars Lecture Series presented by Smithsonian researchers who are exploring the sun, the moon, planets, stars, galaxies and the universe. These speakers will share behind-the-scenes details about how their research is done and about technologies that advance new discoveries. The lectures will be held at the Albert Einstein Planetarium at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C.
Each lecture begins at 5:15 p.m. EST and is followed by a Q&A session. Stay after the lecture to visit the museum’s observatory, weather permitting.
Feb. 21, 2015 — Tracing the Structure of the Universe With Galaxy Surveys
Studies of galaxy formation and cosmology have exploded in recent years due to the immense data obtained from large galaxy surveys. Postdoctoral fellow Cameron McBride will discuss how observational data and theory are combined to better understand fundamental questions in our universe, and will highlight some exciting results from ongoing research.
For more information about the Smithsonian’s Stars Lecture Series, visit http://airandspace.si.edu/
Questions about this lecture series should be directed to the visitor service line at 202-633-2214.
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Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum Presents Astronomy Chats
Have you ever talked to an astronomer? To participate in an informal conversation with an astronomy researcher, join the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum for a series of Astronomy Chats. The researchers work at a variety of institutions, including the Smithsonian, NASA, Harvard University and the U.S. Naval Research Lab. If they cannot come in person, they join by video chat.
The conversation may be on any topic of interest to you. Visitors frequently ask questions like, “What’s an average day like for you?” or “What kind of telescopes have you used?”
Astronomy Chats take place at the Phoebe Waterman Haas Public Observatory at the Smithsonian Institution in the District of Columbia. During inclement weather, the chats may be moved indoors, usually to the Explore the Universe gallery. Both locations are accessible. There is no admission fee.
Astronomy Chats are scheduled for Feb. 22 and March 5, 2015.
For more information about the Smithsonian’s Astronomy Chat Series, visit http://airandspace.si.edu/
Questions about this series should be directed to the visitor service line at 202-633-2214.
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2015 Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships
Caltech’s Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships, or SURF, project introduces undergraduate students to research under the guidance of seasoned mentors at Caltech or NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, or JPL. Students experience the process of research as a creative intellectual activity and gain a more realistic view of the opportunities and demands of a professional research career.
SURF is modeled on the grant-seeking process. Students collaborate with potential mentors to define and develop a project and to write research proposals. Caltech faculty or JPL staff review the proposals and recommend awards. Students work over a 10-week period in the summer, mid-June to late August. At the conclusion of the project, each student will submit a technical paper and give an oral presentation at SURF Seminar Day.
All application materials must be received no later than Feb. 22, 2015. For more information, visithttp://www.sfp.caltech.edu/
Please email any questions about this opportunity to the Caltech Student-Faculty Programs office atsfp@caltech.edu.
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Museum Alliance Webcast — Space Launch System: Booster 101
NASA’s Digital Learning Network and the Space Launch System team invite you to participate in an interactive webcast featuring Bruce Tiller, deputy manager of the Space Launch System Booster Office. The live event will take place on Feb. 23, 2015, at 4 p.m. EST.
Did you know that NASA is building the largest solid propellant rocket booster in the world? NASA will test this booster on March 11, 2015, at the ATK Aerospace System’s test facility in Promontory, Utah. The booster will power NASA’s Space Launch System, or SLS, which will be used to help send humans to deep space destinations including an asteroid and Mars.
In this presentation, Tiller will webcast live from NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama. His presentation will focus on the upcoming rocket booster test, and he will answer questions from webcast viewers around the country.
NASA’s Space Launch System is an advanced, heavy-lift launch vehicle that will provide an entirely new capability for science and human exploration beyond Earth’s orbit. The SLS will give the United States a safe, affordable and sustainable means of extending beyond our current limits and open new doors of discovery from the unique vantage point of space.
Questions may be submitted prior to and during the event via dlinfochannel@gmail.com.
You may view the webcast as an individual at your personal computer, or set up audio visual equipment in your museum or school for a large group to participate.
To view the webcast, visit http://www.ustream.tv/channel/
To learn more about the SLS visit www.nasa.gov/exploration/
After the webcast, presentation materials will be posted on the Museum Alliance member site athttps://informal.jpl.nasa.gov/
To learn how to become a Museum Alliance member, visit https://informal.jpl.nasa.gov/
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Free Webinar Series — ‘NASA STEM Mania: STEM in Sports’
Kick off your classroom activities with “NASA STEM Mania: STEM in Sports”! This series of free virtual educator professional development webinars will help you hit an education home run. Pre-game connections begin at 3:30 p.m. EST and webinars begin at 4 p.m. EST.
Upcoming webinar events include:
Feb. 23, 2015 — Rain-out or Game-on: What Clouds Can Tell Us About Weather
Test your skill at cloud identification. Learn about correlations between cloud types and weather as a way to predict the likelihood of a sporting event being cancelled.
Feb. 24, 2015 –Energizing the Arena!
Learn how energy is used at sporting events, and find out about particularly innovative uses of alternative energy. You will get your students interested as they see how using energy is a part of sports.
Feb. 25, 2015 — Engineering Sports Into the Classroom
Participants will be introduced to engineering design and ways to integrate it into classes as both stand-alone and integrated lessons. We will discuss adaptations and a challenge to engineer “Classroom Basketball” as an example.
Feb. 26, 2015 — Robotic Arm and Weightlifting
Explore the use of robotic arms on the space station and how they function like real human arms. During this session, participants will design their own robotic arm and participate in a weightlifting challenge.
To register for these webinars, and to see a full list of webinars taking place through March 19, 2015, visithttp://tinyurl.com/qz74zzb.
Questions about this series of webinars should be directed to Kelly Hartford at kelly.a.hartford@nasa.gov and/or Lester Morales at lester.morales@nasa.gov.
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Historical NASA Space Artifacts Available for Educational Use
NASA invites eligible U.S. educational institutions, museums and other organizations to screen and request historical artifacts of significance to spaceflight. This is the 25th screening of artifacts since 2009.
Eligible schools, universities, museums, libraries and planetariums may view the artifacts and request specific items through Feb. 23, 2015. Online registrations should include an assigned Department of Education number. Registration also may be made through the requester’s State Agency for Surplus Property office. For instructions, to register and to view and request artifacts online, visit http://gsaxcess.gov/NASAWel.
The artifacts are free of charge and are offered “as-is.” Organizations must cover shipping costs and any handling fees. Shipping fees on smaller items will be relatively inexpensive; however, larger items may involve extensive disassembly, preparation, shipping and reassembly costs. NASA will work closely with eligible organizations to address any unique handling costs.
Questions about this opportunity should be directed to GSAXcessHelp@gsa.gov.
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2015 NASA Glenn Faculty Fellowship Program
Applications are being accepted for the 2015 NASA Glenn Faculty Fellowship Program. This program provides a 10-week summer residency at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, Ohio.
To be eligible to participate in the program, applicants must be full-time science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, faculty members who are U.S. citizens. Applicants must be tenured faculty or in tenure-track positions at four-year accredited U.S. colleges and universities, or full-time faculty at two-year U.S. academic institutions. Faculty members from underrepresented groups and at U.S. Department of Education-designated Minority Serving Institutions are particularly encouraged to apply.
The program awards travel expenses and stipends. Please note that stipend payments or salaries from other federal funding sources, including research grants and contracts, may not be accepted during the 10-week tenure of a Glenn faculty fellowship appointment.
The deadline for applications is Feb. 23, 2015. For more information about this opportunity, visithttp://www.nasa.gov/sites/
Inquiries about NASA’s Glenn Faculty Fellowship Program should be directed to Dr. M. David Kankam atMark.D.Kankam@nasa.gov.
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Student Presentations to Stream Live From National Space Grant Directors’ Meeting
The National Space Grant Directors’ Meeting will stream students’ presentations live through the NASA Digital Learning Network, or DLN. Anticipated topics include micro propulsion applications, automated landing systems, and Space Grant’s impact on education, NASA and industry.
Live streaming of the presentations will take place Feb. 26, 2015, at 3:30-4:15 p.m. EST and Feb. 27, 2015, at 1:05-2:05 p.m. EST.
These meetings are held to highlight the accomplishments of the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program and its 52 consortia. Institutions of higher learning from all across the country will be represented. NASA Space Grant’s goal is to provide opportunities in aerospace education and awareness.
To view these presentations live, please access NASA DLN at http://dln.nasa.gov.
Questions about this event should be directed to Aleksandra Korobov at aleksandra.korobov@nasa.gov.
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Free Exploring Space Lecture Series — Attend in Person or View Online
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Hubble Space Telescope’s release into space. The 2015 Exploring Space Lectures will feature world-class scholars discussing some of the most innovative scientific research conducted using Hubble and exploring the insights the telescope has uncovered about our universe. Presenters will also discuss the telescope’s serviceability, design, administration, execution, and place in history.
Fixing Hubble
Feb. 26, 2015, at 8 p.m. EST
The Hubble Space Telescope servicing missions represent humanity’s quest to discover more about our universe and the limits that we will push to achieve this goal. Frank J. “Cepi” Cepollina, associate director of NASA’s Satellite Servicing Capabilities Office, will share the stories, challenges and significance of the Hubble Space Telescope servicing missions.
Servicing the Hubble Space Telescope
March 26, 2015, at 8 p.m. EDT
Launched in 1990, the Hubble Space Telescope was designed to be serviced by the space shuttle. Former astronaut Michael J. Massimino will discuss the final Hubble Space Telescope Servicing Mission, during which the crew upgraded Hubble through a record-setting series of five spacewalks including the first ever repair of Hubble science instruments in place.
Hubble Telescope: Looking Back in Time at the Distant Universe
June 11, 2015, at 8 p.m. EDT
One of the Hubble Space Telescope’s greatest triumphs has been the clear view it has given of very distant galaxies. Astronomers Sandra Faber and Robert Williams will discuss how this clearer view has enabled astronomers to piece together the formation of structure in the universe.
The Hubble Space Telescope: The Agony and the Ecstasy
June 30, 2015, at 8 p.m. EDT
The Hubble Space Telescope is the most famous scientific instrument ever built, but its remarkable history has seen numerous ups and downs. Professor Robert Smith, author of the definitive history of the Hubble Space Telescope, will explore some of the most exciting and telling episodes in this rich history.
The lectures will be held at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum in the District of Columbia, and attendance is free. However, tickets are required. Come early to see a free film and to meet the lecturer. The lectures will be webcast live for free viewing. Lecture videos will be archived.
For more information about the Smithsonian’s Exploring Space Lecture Series, visit http://airandspace.si.edu/
Questions about this series should be directed to the Visitor Service line at 202-633-2214.
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The Design of Discovery Educator Workshop
This fifth annual workshop has a special focus on the engineering solutions associated with space exploration. Participants will investigate what it takes for scientists and engineers to work together to move fantastic ideas from dream to reality to meet the challenges of complex missions.
Attendees will be the first to learn about a new guided engineering, maker-based “design a mission” project to help students understand the relationship between scientific objectives and the engineering and design process.
The Design of Discovery workshop will take place on March 7, 2015, in four locations.
— NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, California
— NASA’s Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas
— University Corporation for Atmospheric Research, Boulder, Colorado
— Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, Laurel, Maryland
Participants will hear the latest on emerging science from the New Horizons mission as it begins to return images of Pluto. Researchers will share how the MESSENGER mission will make a big bang when it runs out of fuel after spending four years in orbit and returning ground-breaking science data from Mercury. And attendees will follow the ion-propelled Dawn mission as it nears orbit around dwarf planet Ceres.
All sites offer hands-on activities and resources for K-12 and out-of-school-time educators. The cost of the workshop is $25. Lunch and snacks will be provided. Registration closes on Feb. 27, 2015.
For more information, visit http://dawn.jpl.nasa.gov/
Please email any questions about the Design of Discovery workshops to Mary Cullen at mcullen@mcrel.org.
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NASA/Applied Physics Laboratory Summer Internship 2015
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, or APL, is offering summer projects for students interested in working on NASA missions or space-related research opportunities.
Students participating in the 2015 NASA/APL Internship Program will work at the APL facility in Laurel, Maryland. Students will receive a stipend for the 10-week program, and housing will be provided.
Eligible students include undergraduate students who will be sophomores, juniors or seniors as of fall 2015. Graduate students starting their first or second year in fall 2015 are also eligible. Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
Applications are due Feb. 28, 2015.
For more information about the internship, including a list of opportunities that are currently available, visithttps://dnnpro.outer.jhuapl.
Questions about the NASA/APL Internships Program should be emailed to aplnasaintern-web@jhuapl.edu.
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MAVEN Workshop — ‘Red Planet: Read, Write, Explore!’
The Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution mission began orbiting Mars on Sept. 21, 2014. MAVEN will explore the planet′s upper atmosphere, ionosphere and interactions with the solar wind. The mission will provide invaluable insights into the history of Mars′ atmosphere, climate, liquid water and planetary habitability.
Join the MAVEN education team for a one-day workshop on the MAVEN mission and the accompanying elementary program, “Red Planet: Read, Write, Explore!” This program features six standards-based lessons that combine science, literacy and art to help students understand planetary habitability and the MAVEN mission. The workshop will introduce participants to these lessons and concepts. The workshop also will have a session devoted to Spanish-speaking English Language Learner and English as a Second Language students. Attendees will receive free classroom materials.
The workshop will take place on Feb. 28, 2015, in Chandler, Arizona. Registration is $15 and includes a continental breakfast and lunch. Space is limited, so interested educators are encouraged to apply early.
For more information about the workshop and to apply online, visit http://lasp.colorado.edu/home/
Please email any questions about this opportunity to epomail@lasp.colorado.edu.
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Scholarships Available for 2015 U.S. Space & Rocket Center® STEMcon Professional Development Sessions
The U.S. Space & Rocket Center® is offering scholarships to educators from NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center’s five-state region to attend a four-day professional development session featuring NASA-focused STEM content and resources.
This is a terrific opportunity to learn new ways to bring science to life both inside and outside the classroom. STEMcon provides 32 hours of intensive classroom, laboratory and training time. During the program, educators participate in astronaut-style training and simulations, along with activities designed to promote lifelong learning. All lessons and activities are correlated to Next Generation Science Standards and other national standards and are ready to use in various educational settings.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the NASA Competitive Program for Science Museums and Planetariums. The scholarship includes tuition, meals, lodging, lesson materials and a stipend to help offset travel expenses.
STEMcon sessions will take place June 4-7, 2015, (arrive June 3; depart June 7) and July 9-12, 2015, (arrive July 8; depart July 12).
STEMcon applications are due by 11:59 p.m. CST on Feb. 28, 2015.
To be considered for a 2015 STEMcon scholarship, educators must meet the following requirements:
1. Must be ONE of the following:
— a certified current or practicing educator who is teaching science, mathematics or technology to students ages 10-14 and will continue to teach these subject areas through 2016, OR
— an informal current or practicing educator who is teaching science, mathematics or technology to students ages 10-14 and will continue to teach these subject areas through 2016, OR
— a preservice educator who will be teaching science, mathematics or technology to students ages 10-14 and will continue to teach these subject areas through 2016.
2. Have not previously attended a Space Academy for Educators program.
3. Must live in the five-state Marshall Space Flight Center service area: Alabama, Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri and Tennessee.
For more information and to access the online application, visit https://spacecamp.fluidreview.
If you have questions about the 2015 STEMcon opportunity, please email your inquiries toeducation@spacecamp.com.
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NIFS OSSI — Summer 2015 Opportunities
NIFS OSSI strives to provide high school, undergraduate, and graduate students at all institutions access to a portfolio of internship, fellowship, and scholarship opportunities offered by NASA mission directorates and centers.
Go to https://intern.nasa.gov to find information on NIFS opportunities. The site features the NIFS OSSI online application for recruiting NASA Interns, Fellows and Scholars. This innovative system allows students to search and apply for up to 15 opportunities in one location. A completed application places the student in the applicant pool for consideration by all NASA mentors.
Applications for summer 2015 opportunities are due March 1, 2015.
To find available opportunities and to fill out an OSSI online application for recruiting NIFS, visithttps://intern.nasa.gov/index.
Inquiries about the OSSI should be submitted via https://intern.nasa.gov/oic/.
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NASA Postdoctoral Program Fellowships
The NASA Postdoctoral Program, or NPP, supports NASA’s goal to expand scientific understanding of the Earth and the universe in which we live.
Selected by a competitive peer-review process, NPP fellows complete one- to three-year fellowships that offer scientists and engineers unique opportunities to conduct research in fields of science relevant to NASA.
These opportunities advance NASA’s missions in earth science, heliophysics, astrophysics, planetary science, astrobiology, space bioscience, aeronautics and engineering, human exploration and operations, and space technology. Opportunities are available at NASA centers and other NASA-approved sites.
As a result, NPP fellows contribute to national priorities for scientific exploration, confirm NASA’s leadership in fundamental research and complement the efforts of NASA’s partners in the national science community.
U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents and foreign nationals eligible for J-1 status as a research scholar may apply. Applicants must have completed a doctorate or equivalent degree before beginning the fellowship, but may apply while completing degree requirements. Applicants who earned the Ph.D. more than five years before the deadline date are categorized as senior fellows; all applicants, no matter their category, must apply and become eligible for an NPP award via the same process.
Interested applicants may apply by one of three annual application deadlines: March 1, July 1 and November 1.
For more information and application procedures, go to http://nasa.orau.org/postdoc/.
Questions about this opportunity should be directed to nasapostdoc@orau.org.
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International Space Station Research Design Challenge: Capillary Effects on Liquids Exploratory ResearchExperiments
NASA and Portland State University are seeking participants for the International Space Station Research Design Challenge: Capillary Effects on Liquids Exploratory Research Experiments, or CELERE. This design challenge enables students to participate in microgravity research on capillary action, similar to that conducted on the space station.
Teams or individuals create their own experiment using computer-aided design, or CAD, with a provided template. Short experiment proposals are submitted, and test cells are manufactured by Portland State University using the CAD drawings and a computer-controlled laser cutter. Each experiment is conducted in a drop tower. Video of the drop is provided for student analysis and reporting of results.
CELERE is open to individuals and teams in grades 8-12 Teams may include younger students as long as there is at least one team member in grades 8-12 to facilitate the participation of informal science clubs, Scouts, etc. Teams may be of any size and may include an entire class or science club. The program is limited to students from the United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Design proposals are now being accepted. Deadlines for submissions are March 1 and April 1, 2015.
For more information about this opportunity, visit http://spaceflightsystems.grc.
If you have questions about this opportunity, please email your inquiries to the CELERE team atcelere@lists.nasa.gov.
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Call for Papers: Fourth Annual International Space Station Research and Development Conference
The fourth annual International Space Station Research and Development Conference will be held July 7-9, 2015, at the Marriott Copley Hotel in Boston, Massachusetts. NASA, the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space and the American Astronomical Society are seeking abstracts under the categories of biology and medicine, human health in space, commercialization and nongovernment utilization, materials development, plant science, remote sensing/Earth and space observation, energy, technology development and demonstration, and science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, education. Topics should relate to science, exploration and technology activities (past, present, planned or under development) on the International Space Station.
Due to the large number of expected submissions, presenters are encouraged to submit abstracts early; the deadline is March 2, 2015.
For more information about the conference and how to submit an abstract for consideration, visithttp://www.issconference.org/.
Questions about this opportunity should be submitted via http://www.issconference.org/#
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2014 NASA EONS Solicitation Amendment 8: New Program Element
The NASA Office of Education Minority University Research and Education Project, or MUREP, solicits proposals from Minority Serving Institutions, or MSIs, to create and implement a NASA STEM challenge, targeted for MSI participation. STEM challenges are creative applications of NASA-related science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and cross-cutting concepts.
MUREP STEM Engagement, or MSE, seeks proposals to support MSIs that demonstrate the potential to increase the number of minority undergraduates in STEM education areas relevant to NASA.
The specific goals of MSE awards are to:
— Increase the retention and completion rates of undergraduate degrees awarded from MSIs in NASA-related STEM disciplines;
— Increase the number of NASA-focused STEM experiences that engage underrepresented groups in active learning to improve retention of information and critical thinking skills; and,
— Disseminate proven, innovative practices and programs in STEM teaching, STEM learning, and recruitment and retention of underrepresented/ underserved students in STEM fields.
The specific objectives of the NASA MSE solicitation are to:
— Design, develop and implement a NASA-related STEM challenge targeted for MSI and community college STEM-enrolled student participation;
— Align the challenge design with the NASA mission and with a specific NASA program or project; and
— Develop and implement processes to capture the impact of activities and strategies implemented through this challenge.
Notices of Intent are requested by Jan. 20, 2015, and proposals are due March 2, 2015.
For more information, visit http://go.nasa.gov/1El8sfV.
Questions about this solicitation may be directed to Theresa Martinez, MSE manager, atNASAMSE@nasaprs.com.
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Engineering for You Video Contest 2
The National Academy of Engineering, or NAE, is launching the Engineering for You Video Contest 2, or E4U2.
Throughout history, engineering has advanced civilization from the way we connect with each other, to the way we heal, to how we get around and simply have fun. But society still faces major obstacles. The NAE has outlined 14 game-changing opportunities for the 21st century called the Grand Challenges for Engineering. Review the challenges and produce a one- to two-minute video showing how achieving one or more of the NAE Grand Challenges for Engineering will lead to a more sustainable, healthy, secure and/or joyous world.
The competition is open to all individuals or teams in the following competition categories:
— Middle school students and younger (grades K-8)
— High school students (grades 9-12)
— Tertiary education students (two-year college through graduate school, full or part time)
— The general public
The main prize is $25,000, and videos will be accepted through March 2, 2015.
For more information, visit http://www.nae.edu/e4u2/.
Questions about the E4U2 Video Contest should be directed to E4Uvideocontest@nae.edu.
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Release of Cooperative Agreement Notice for NASA Science Mission Directorate Science Education
NASA’s Science Mission Directorate, or SMD, has released a Cooperative Agreement Notice, or CAN, soliciting team-based proposals for SMD science education for community review and comment. The final text is downloadable from the NSPIRES Web page at https://nspires.nasaprs.com/ by selecting Solicitations and searching for NASA Science Education or NNH15ZDA004C.
The goal of NASA SMD Science Education is to enable NASA scientists and engineers into the learning environment more efficiently and effectively for learners of all ages. This CAN is to meet the following NASA SMD Science Education Objectives: Enabling STEM education, improving U.S. science literacy; advancing National education goals; and leveraging science education through partnerships. NASA intends to select one or more focused, science discipline-based team(s). While it is envisioned that multiple agreements may be awarded, selection of a single award to support all of SMD science education requirements is not precluded. Awards are anticipated by Sept. 30, 2015.
Issuance of this CAN is dependent on programmatic factors, including NASA receiving an appropriation and operating plan containing adequate funding within the NASA budget. Any costs incurred by prospective investigators in preparing submissions in response to this CAN are incurred completely at the submitter’s own risk.
Programmatic questions regarding this solicitation should be submitted no later than 15 days prior to the proposal due date by email using the character string “Science Education CAN” (without quotes) included in the subject line of all transmissions. The identity of those submitting comments will be held in confidence. Answers to questions about this Announcement and Frequently Asked Questions from the draft CAN text are available on the website athttps://nspires.nasaprs.com/. Note that it is the responsibility of interested proposers to check for such information prior to the submission of their proposals.
Programmatic questions should be submitted to:
Kristen Erickson
Email: CANsci-ed@hq.nasa.gov
Science Mission Directorate, NASA Headquarters
300 E Street, SW, Washington, DC 20546
Anticipated NASA SMD Science Education CAN schedule:
CAN Release Date — Feb. 4, 2015
Preproposal Conference — Feb. 17, 2015 (1 p.m. EST)
Notice of Intent to Propose Deadline — March 4, 2015
Electronic Proposal Submittal Deadline — May 4, 2015, at 11:59 p.m. EDT
Selections Announced (target) — Summer 2015
Projects Begin (target) — Oct. 1, 2015
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Live Broadcast of Space Launch System Booster Test Firing
Did you know that NASA is building the largest solid propellant rocket booster in the world? NASA will test this booster, designated Qualification Motor-1, or QM-1, on March 11, 2015, at the Orbital ATK test facility in Promontory, Utah. The test is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. EDT.
QM-1 is a five-segment solid propellant booster that will help power the Space Launch System. The two-minute, full-duration static test is a huge milestone for the SLS Program and will qualify the booster design for high-temperature conditions. This type of test typically comes only after multiple years of development and signifies major progress being made on the rocket. Once this test and a second, low-temperature test planned for early 2016 are complete, the hardware is qualified and ready for the first flight of SLS.
NASA’s Space Launch System will be used to help send humans to deep space destinations like an asteroid and Mars. SLS is an advanced, heavy-lift launch vehicle that will provide an entirely new capability for science and human exploration beyond Earth’s orbit. The SLS will give the nation a means to reach beyond our current limits and open new doors of discovery from the unique vantage point of space.
The test will be streamed at http://www.nasa.gov/
To learn more about the Space Launch System, visit http://www.nasa.gov/
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RockOn 2015 University Rocket Science Workshop
University and community college faculty and students are invited to a weeklong workshop to learn how to build and launch a scientific experiment into space. NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia is hosting the RockOn 2015 workshop June 20-25, 2015, in partnership with the Colorado and Virginia Space Grant Consortia. Workshop participants must be U.S. citizens. The registration deadline for the workshop is May 1, 2015.
The hands-on workshop teaches participants to build experiments that fly on sounding rockets. During the week, participants will work in teams of three to construct and integrate a sounding rocket payload from a kit. On the fifth day of the workshop, the experiments will fly on a sounding rocket expected to reach an altitude of more than 70 miles.
Each experiment will provide valuable scientific data, analyzed as part of the student-led science and engineering research. The program engages faculty and students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics skills critical to NASA’s future engineering, scientific and technical missions.
Register before April 3, 2015, and save $50 on workshop registration.
For more information about RockOn and to register online, visit http://spacegrant.colorado.
Questions about the workshop or the registration process should be directed to Chris Koehler by email atkoehler@colorado.edu or by telephone at 303-492-4750.
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2014 NASA EONS Solicitation — New MUREP ASTAR Fellowship Appendix
NASA’s Office of Education is accepting new proposals under the Education Opportunities in NASA STEM, or EONS, 2014 NASA Research Announcement for the MUREP Advanced STEM Training and Research, or ASTAR, Fellowships appendix.
NASA Office of Education Fellowships support independently conceived or designed research or senior design projects for graduate students in disciplines needed to help advance NASA’s missions. ASTAR fellowships provide awards for individuals in the early stage of their graduate studies. They must be pursuing or planning to pursue graduate work leading to master’s and doctoral degrees in relevant NASA-related disciplines at accredited U.S. universities.
The fellowship award includes tuition offset, student stipend, and funding for an annual Center Based Research Experience. The result is an annual award of up to $50,000 for a student pursuing a master’s degree or $55,000 for a student pursuing a doctoral degree. Fellowship awards are made in the form of training grants to academic institutions and are for a duration of no more than three academic years. Proposals are due May 4, 2015.
For more information, visit http://go.nasa.gov/199fbjb.
Questions about this solicitation may be directed to nspires-help@nasaprs.com.
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2015 NSBRI First Award Fellowship Program
The National Space Biomedical Research Institute, or NSBRI, is accepting fellowship applications for the First Award Fellowship Program. The one-year fellowships are available in any U.S. laboratory carrying out space-related biomedical or biotechnological research.
Applicants are required to submit proposals with the support of a mentor and an institution, and all proposals will be evaluated by a peer-review committee. Selected applicants receive a stipend, allowance for health insurance and travel funds for related scientific meetings.
This year’s applicants also can request to be considered to spend part of the fellowship in Russia, via a program involving NSBRI and the Institute of Biomedical Problems in Moscow.
Detailed program and application submission information is available at http://www.nsbri.org/
The application deadline is June 5, 2015.
Questions may be directed to Dr. Amanda Smith Hackler at hackler@bcm.edu.
NSBRI, funded by NASA, is a consortia of institutions studying the health risks related to long-duration spaceflight and developing the medical technologies needed for long missions. The institute’s science, technology and education projects take place at more than 60 institutions across the United States.
For more information about NSBRI’s First Award Program, please visit http://www.nsbri.org/
