MSGC Updates

There are quite a few upcoming opportunities happening over the next couple of months and the MSGC team wants to make sure that you are updated on the latest challenges, programs, internships, contests etc. 

Let the MSGC team know if you plan on participating by sending an email to mispacegrant@umich.edu

The MSU Science Festival returns April 2024 for the 12th year!
https://myumi.ch/pkmzg
The MSU Science Festival is a free annual celebration of science, fueled by curiosity, wonder, and discovery. With events for everyone to enjoy, the MSU Science Festival explores topics ranging from the ordinary to the extraordinary. From astronomy to music, and chemistry to microbiology; scientists and educators across the state are eager to share the wonder of science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics.

Call for Proposals: NASA’s Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate’s University Leadership Initiative
Applicant’s Workshop: Wednesday, April 3, 1-3 p.m. EDT
Proposal Deadline: May 29
https://myumi.ch/kZxGk
The University Leadership Initiative provides the opportunity for university teams to exercise leadership in proposing technical challenges, defining multidisciplinary solutions, establishing peer review mechanisms, and applying innovative strategies to strengthen research impact. Multiple awards are anticipated with nominal annual budgets in the $1 to 2 million range per award. Awards will have a maximum duration of four years.

Fall 2024 NASA Internships
Applications due April 5
https://myumi.ch/bEyJd
Find your place in space with a NASA internship. NASA offers several opportunities for students to undertake meaningful and challenging projects that truly make an impact on humanity. Applications for fall 2024 internships are due Friday, April 5.

NASA Space Tech Art Challenge: Imagine Tomorrow
Entry Deadline: Monday, April 15, at 5 p.m. EDT
https://myumi.ch/8reNb
The NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC) Program is inviting artists to show the world the future of space technology. The goal of this challenge is to create posters that help people better understand the visionary aerospace concepts that might be used in future NASA missions. The posters will illustrate the appearance of the technology, as well as how and where it might be utilized in the future. Selected artworks will be featured across NASA’s platforms and will also compete for a share of a $3,000 prize purse.

International Space Station Research & Development Conference Call for Abstracts
Submission Deadline: Friday, April 19
https://myumi.ch/23mV6
Low Earth orbit offers research and development opportunities across a wide variety of disciplines. The International Space Station (ISS) is a valuable platform for experiments and technology demonstrations that benefit life on Earth and in space. At ISSRDC 2024 (July 29-August 1 in Boston), the American Astronautical Society will once again host the technical sessions component of the event. The technical session abstract submission period is now open, and interested individuals are encouraged to apply. Presentation topics include use of the ISS or low Earth orbit to advance research and technology development in diverse fields of study.

Department of Energy: New Mexico Lab-Embedded Entrepreneur Program Opportunity
Application Deadline: April 22
https://myumi.ch/N6Me9
Every year, a cohort of entrepreneurs are recruited from around the country. For two years, you will be embedded in the Los Alamos National Laboratory research ecosystem, where DOE/NNSA provides funding, access to Los Alamos and Sandia national labs, and a program of intensive mentorship, tailored business development, and networking. We are looking for entrepreneurial technical leaders who have the drive and ability to build a transformative technology and lead a team in its development. We also aim to ensure that the initial project concept is technically sound, reasonably differentiated, and addresses a well-framed problem with potential to significantly advance the missions of our fellowship sponsors.

Moon to Mars eXploration Systems and Habitation (M2M X-Hab) 2025 Academic Innovation Challenge
Announcement and Request for Distribution
Proposals Due Date: April 26, 2024
https://myumi.ch/W52AX
The Moon to Mars eXploration Systems and Habitation (M2M X-Hab) 2025 Academic Innovation Challenge is a university-level challenge designed to develop strategic partnerships and collaborations with universities. It has been organized to help bridge strategic knowledge gaps and increase knowledge in capabilities and technology risk reduction related to NASA’s vision and missions. The competition is intended to link with senior- and graduate-level design curricula that emphasize hands-on design, research, development, and manufacturing of functional prototypical subsystems that enable functionality for space habitats and deep space exploration missions. NASA will directly benefit from the challenge by sponsoring the development of innovative concepts and technologies from universities, which will result in novel ideas and solutions that could be applied to exploration.

NASA Advanced Air Vehicles Program (AAVP) Fellowship Opportunities
Application Deadline: April 30 at 5 p.m. EDT
https://myumi.ch/7P3nN
NASA’s Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate is seeking proposals from accredited U.S. institutions for research training grants to begin the academic year. This opportunity is designed to support independently conceived research projects by highly qualified graduate students, in disciplines needed to help advance NASA’s mission, thus affording these students the opportunity to directly contribute to advancements in STEM-related areas of study. AAVP fellowship opportunities are focused on innovation and the generation of measurable research results that contribute to NASA’s current and future science and technology goals.

2024 Kibo Robot Programming Challenge – Call for U.S. Teams
Registration Deadline: May 13
https://myumi.ch/RmpN4
The Kibo Robot Programming Challenge invites teams of students from around the world to create programs to move free-flying robots known as Astrobees on the International Space Station. The competition presents tasks/obstacles for students to solve using the space station’s Kibo module as a game space. Preliminary rounds will be held in multiple countries using ground-based simulations. The winning U.S. team could potentially travel to Tsukuba Space Center in Japan in November 2024 for the International Final Round.

Future Leaders in Public Service Internship Program – Fall 2024
https://myumi.ch/zXw3b
Applications are open now for the fall 2024 Future Leaders in Public Service Internship Program. The program helps bring diverse young talent to government and offers students the opportunity to apply their educational training to work at a federal agency. Undergraduate, graduate and professional students from across disciplines are welcome to apply.

The MSU Science Festival returns April 2024 for the 12th year!
https://myumi.ch/pkmzg
The MSU Science Festival is a free annual celebration of science, fueled by curiosity, wonder, and discovery. With events for everyone to enjoy, the MSU Science Festival explores topics ranging from the ordinary to the extraordinary. From astronomy to music, and chemistry to microbiology; scientists and educators across the state are eager to share the wonder of science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics.

Snap It! An Eclipse Photo Adventure Game
https://myumi.ch/M6rQb
The Traveler – an enthusiastic character who loves to explore the universe – has come to Earth and needs your help to learn about solar eclipses. Snap It! An Eclipse Photo Adventure Game challenges players ages 7 and up to take photos of the Moon and other objects as they pass in front of the Sun. These photos can then be turned into postcards that can be decorated as you learn about eclipses and transits. The game can be played on any computer using an internet browser.

Joint Polar Satellite System STEM Activity: Aurora Art!
https://myumi.ch/ny758
The aurora borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, appears like a light show in the sky with amazing colors, including (mostly) green, with hues of yellow, purple, pink, and white. While NOAA and NASA’s Joint Polar Satellite System (JPSS) satellites observe the aurora in grayscale, it can be fun to add a splash of color. For this activity, students will unleash their creativity to create a landscape of trees silhouetted against a night sky filled with mesmerizing auroras made out of watercolors or tissue paper.

Solar Science With the Peanuts Gang: STEM Activities and Lessons
Available Now
https://myumi.ch/yp27V
Prepare your students for the solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, with activities from Peanuts Worldwide and NASA that explore the science behind a solar eclipse and the safe way to experience its “magic.” Students and families can even become citizen scientists!

EclipseEd Webinar: Illuminating Learning Paths for the April 8 Total Solar Eclipse
Event Date: April 3 at 1:30 p.m. EST
https://myumi.ch/ZDZw3
Build excitement for the SpaceX Crew-8 launch with STEM activities and resources. Download the printable Commercial Crew A to Z Activity and Coloring Booklet, take an immersive virtual reality tour of Commercial Crew facilities, and use computer programming to create an interactive simulation of a spacecraft docking to the space station.

Genes in Space 2024 – Design and Launch Your DNA Experiment to Space!
Event Dates: April 11-13, 2024
https://myumi.ch/qGbnQ
Calling all students in grades 7 through 12: Have you ever wondered how astronauts might survive a deep-space mission or how we might be able to use biology to transform new worlds? If so, Genes in Space is for you! Genes in Space is a science contest that challenges students to design original experiments that use biotechnology to explore the real-life challenges and opportunities of space exploration. The contest is free and does not require equipment. The winning experiment is conducted by astronauts aboard the International Space Station! Submission deadline is April 15th, 2024. Educators: The Genes in Space contest is a great way to engage students in authentic research. Genes in Space is a collaboration between miniPCR bio and Boeing with generous support from the ISS U.S. National Laboratory and New England Biolabs, Inc.

Zero Robotics: 2024 Summer Program
Registration Deadline: Friday, April 19
https://myumi.ch/G4keJ
You and your students are being invited to participate in the 2024 Zero Robotics Summer Program where they will be given the opportunity to write code to control NASA’s Astrobee satellites aboard the International Space Station! Sponsored by the Aerospace Corporation, NASA, and the ISS National Lab and operated by MIT Media Lab’s Space Enabled Group with STEMx365 and the Innovation Learning Center – the Summer of 2024 is looking to be extremely competitive and very exciting. If you wish to form a team and participate, we ask that you complete the initial registration (via this Google Form) no later than April 19, 2024. If we do not receive a confirmation of your registration, we will open your spot up to another team on our waitlist. Teams will be notified on a rolling basis.

NASA Aeronautics ‘Dream With Us!’ Design Challenge
Audience: Students ages 13-18
Entry Deadline: April 30
https://myumi.ch/9g63z
How can drones and advanced technologies improve responses to natural disasters? Students are invited to help NASA envision new ways to use uncrewed aerial vehicles to help reduce natural disaster risks, help mitigate the situation during a natural disaster, and/or help rebuild after a natural disaster has occurred. Teams of two-four participants are challenged to build a presentation for NASA experts to explain how their drone technology helps in one or all three of these areas. Selected teams will have an opportunity to chat with a NASA expert about how they contribute to current aeronautics challenges. Selected designs may also be shared on NASA social media platforms and more.

National Space Day Virtual Event for Grades 4-5
Event Date: Friday, May 3, at 1 p.m. EDT
https://myumi.ch/Pkry9
Join classes across the country for an out-of-this-world experience on National Space Day! This spring, the U.S. space industry and NASA are offering your students a look into the science and technology that will shape their generation’s future – on this planet and beyond. Get your students excited about the incredible wonders and potential of space by joining us for this unique 45-minute broadcast event through YouTube on Friday, May 3 at 1pm ET (10am PT).

2024 Kibo Robot Programming Challenge – Call for U.S. Teams
Registration Deadline: May 13
https://myumi.ch/RmpN4
The Kibo Robot Programming Challenge invites teams of students from around the world to create programs to move free-flying robots known as Astrobees on the International Space Station. The competition presents tasks/obstacles for students to solve using the space station’s Kibo module as a game space. Preliminary rounds will be held in multiple countries using ground-based simulations. The winning U.S. team could potentially travel to Tsukuba Space Center in Japan in November 2024 for the International Final Round.

The MSU Science Festival returns April 2024 for the 12th year!
https://myumi.ch/pkmzg
The MSU Science Festival is a free annual celebration of science, fueled by curiosity, wonder, and discovery. With events for everyone to enjoy, the MSU Science Festival explores topics ranging from the ordinary to the extraordinary. From astronomy to music, and chemistry to microbiology; scientists and educators across the state are eager to share the wonder of science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics.

The LEGO Education Eclipse Collection
Available Now
https://myumi.ch/23mXe
On April 8, the United States will experience a total solar eclipse. For millions of people, day will turn into night as the Moon passes directly between the Sun and Earth. In the weeks leading up to this moment, students can explore this scientific phenomena, which won’t happen again until 2044. The LEGO® Education Eclipse Collection includes activities that turn this unforgettable event into a lasting learning experience before, during, and after April 8. Get ready to explore scientific connections, spark student and teacher engagement, and bring the eclipse excitement into your school day.

NASA eClips Newsletter: Explore the Moon With NASA eClips
https://myumi.ch/egzR3
For as long as we can remember, Earth’s Moon has inspired and perplexed us. The latest NASA eClips newsletter is filled with videos and activities to continue building learners’ lunar-wonderings as NASA sets its sights on continuing lunar-wanderings.

Find Your Place in Space Week
Event Dates: Saturday, April 6 – Saturday, April 13
https://myumi.ch/DrwnM
In our ever-expanding society, space has become more than rocket launches and trips to the moon. It is an industry that touches nearly every other – from healthcare, to climate, to banking, to agriculture, etc. During Find Your Place in Space Week, we open the doors to the space industry and take a deep dive into all it has to offer. Whether you are a space expert or newly interested in the ‘final frontier,’ there is something in this week for you. Join the National Space Council agencies from across the Biden-Harris Administration, and people from across our nation as we explore what it means to ‘find you place in space.’

National Informal STEM Education Network: Public Engagement Resources for the April 8 Solar Eclipse
Available Now
https://myumi.ch/wy7Qz
On Monday, April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will be seen in the US from Texas to Maine. States on the path of totality include: Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. All of North America will have at least a partial solar eclipse (if skies are clear). The NISE Network has prepared resources to help you plan ahead to engage public audiences in your community.

Free Eclipse Glasses @ Kalamazoo Museum
At KVM’s front desk during public hours | FREE
https://myumi.ch/3Qj1z
Be prepared for the eclipse on Monday, April 8. Pick up a pair of solar eclipse glasses at the museum’s front desk during our public hours of operation while supplies last. Visit the KVM on April 8, 1 – 5 p.m., to view the eclipse, live NASA feed of the eclipse as it moves across North America and more.

Earth and Human Activity: Celebrating Earth Day and Moon Trees
Registration Deadline: Wednesday, April 10
Event Date: Thursday, April 11, at 6 p.m. EDT
https://myumi.ch/Q6q2r
On Earth Day, we celebrate our wondrous planet with discussions and activities on how we can protect Earth’s natural resources for future generations. One way to do this is to plant trees. Trees connect us physically and environmentally and are vital to our planet’s climate and biodiversity. Some trees on Earth also connect us to the Moon. Join us for an online professional development session as we explore “What on Earth are Moon Trees?” with Next Gen STEM activities that engage students in creativity, communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills.

NASA International Space Apps Challenge Seeks Local Leads for 2024 Hackathon
Application Deadline: June 15
https://myumi.ch/1bApR
The NASA International Space Apps Challenge is in search of Local Leads for the 2024 hackathon taking place in October. Local Leads work alongside NASA and the Space Apps Global Organizing Team to organize the Space Apps Challenge for a specific city or town. This includes planning a virtual or in-person local event, supporting local participants, and coordinating local collaborators, judges, and community members. Local Leads get the opportunity to join a global community of thought leaders from 185+ countries/territories to serve their local space, tech, innovation, and creative communities.