Historic NASA Artifacts Now up for Grabs for Schools, Museums, and Other Institutions

In an exciting opportunity for educational institutions and space enthusiasts, historic NASA artifacts are now available for eligible schools, universities, libraries, museums, and planetariums that want to use or display them.

Eligible institutions interested in receiving historic NASA objects for their STEM programs have until June 30 to apply for the 60th screening of the NASA Artifacts Module.

Historical Significance

These NASA artifacts hold immense historical significance and may be associated with groundbreaking achievements in technology, advancements in the understanding of the universe, or renowned personalities who have contributed to the space agency's legacy.

From decommissioned programs to science instruments and small hardware flown in space, these artifacts represent the rich history of NASA's scientific and technological endeavors.

Lauren Katz, exhibits and artifacts program manager at NASA, emphasized the importance of the agency's program in inspiring the next generation of STEM students and space enthusiasts.

Katz noted that "NASA's Artifacts program offers an opportunity to encourage the next generation of science, technology, engineering, and math students - the Artemis Generation - and many other space enthusiasts, with these priceless artifacts to share the agency's awe-inspiring accomplishments."

Eligible institutions can now apply online through a simple process to secure their chance to participate in this unique event. NASA recognizes its vital role in the nation's history and aims to make these artifacts available for STEM educational outreach activities and displays.

Over the past 12 years, NASA has lent more than 13,000 artifacts from its vast collection to select institutions throughout every state in the United States. This initiative has not only enhanced educational experiences but also nurtured a deep enthusiasm for scientific exploration.

Available NASA Artifacts

To explore the available NASA artifacts and apply for participation, interested institutions can visit the official NASA Artifacts website at https://artifacts.nasa.gov/. The website provides detailed information about the program and an online application process.

To access the screening tool and view the available artifacts, interested parties can navigate to the "Menu" icon at the top left of the website. Following the application period, NASA will notify the selected recipients, referred to as custodians, in July. These custodians will be responsible for covering the costs of packaging, handling, and shipping their chosen artifacts.

The Artifact Module serves as a screening tool, enabling educational programs to incorporate authentic NASA items into their STEM-themed activities. By integrating these artifacts into their curricula, institutions can enhance educational experiences and inspire future generations to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

The pre-screening process allows interested parties to review and select artifacts of their choice from the website. NASA will offer a diverse range of artifacts, including the esteemed SOFIA Science Instruments (FORCAST & HAWC+), authentic Space Shuttle tiles, and models of iconic spacecraft such as the Hubble, Apollo, Space Shuttle, and Soviet spacecraft SOYUZ.

These artifacts symbolize the remarkable achievements and milestones in the agency's space exploration. These objects will be displayed on the website for a period of 30 days, starting on May 29, 2023, and ending on June 30, 2023. If an artifact is not selected during the pre-screening phase, it will follow its normal process for use and disposition.