Learning Centers Around The Country Hold Special Events To Engage Children With Space-Themed Activities

Challenger Center for Space Science Education (Challenger Center) in collaboration with the National Institute of Aerospace (NIA) and the NASA Planetary Science Division are hosting a series of events in support of NASA's journey of scientific discovery of our Solar System's content, origin, evolution and the potential for life elsewhere. The community-focused programs began in May and will continue in June at 10 Challenger Learning Centers across the country.

"We're thrilled to bring our Centers another opportunity to reach into their communities and make an impact," said Dr. Lance Bush, president and CEO, Challenger Center. "The activities our Centers have planned not only engage children in important STEM subject areas, but also share our excitement about NASA's current and upcoming programs and initiatives."

To be chosen as a host location, Challenger Center reviewed applications from close to 20 Centers outlining their specific plans for a potential event. Once selected, each Center focused its planning around one of three themes: New Worlds – New Discoveries, I'm the Mars Generation, or Eyes on Earth. Centers participated in virtual professional development trainings hosted by NIA to help prepare for the events and to learn about different resource and hands-on activities available to incorporate into their special day.

The events at the 10 different Challenger Learning Centers will offer STEM-enriched activities to a variety of audiences and age groups, including children, parents and teachers. In addition to program-specific activities, the Centers can utilize the knowledge learned during the training sessions to enhance existing initiatives.

FMI: www.challenger.org