The NASA Explorer School-East Oktibbeha County School District team recently celebrated the start of its three-year partnership with NASA during a two-part kickoff event Nov. 7 and 8. Pictured from left are, Oktibbeha County School District Superintendent Dr. Walter Conley; NES Team Administrator James Covington; Stennis Space Center Deputy Director Gene Goldman; Sharon Bonner; NES Team Lead Yolanda Magee; Andrea Temple; Carolyn Rice; and special guest astronaut Roger Crouch.

Teacher Kim Cantrell from the Edwards Air Force Base Middle School, Edwards, Calif., participating in a live uplink at NASA Dryden as part of NASA's Explorer Schools program, asks the crew of the International Space Station a question.

Mississippi Rep. Percy Watson (left) talks with first-graders Savannah Jones and Levi Meyers, and Astronaut Lee Morin on Sept. 8 during the NASA Explorer School kickoff event at the Lillie Burney Elementary School in Hattiesburg, Miss. NASA Explorer Schools help promote student achievement in mathematics and science through activities using the excitement of NASA research, discoveries and missions.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Kay Hire talks to students in Garland V. Stewart Magnet Middle School, a NASA Explorer School (NES) in Tampa, Fla. She joined Center Director Jim Kennedy in sharing the agency’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Kennedy is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Kay Hire talks to students in Garland V. Stewart Magnet Middle School, a NASA Explorer School (NES) in Tampa, Fla. She joined Center Director Jim Kennedy in sharing the agency’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Kennedy is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Garland V. Stewart Magnet Middle School, a NASA Explorer School (NES) in Tampa, Fla., is the site where Center Director Jim Kennedy and astronaut Kay Hire shared the agency’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Kennedy talked with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Students at Garland V. Stewart Magnet Middle School, a NASA Explorer School (NES) in Tampa, Fla., listen attentively to astronaut Kay Hire. She and Center Director Jim Kennedy were at the school to share the agency’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Kennedy is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Students at Garland V. Stewart Magnet Middle School, a NASA Explorer School (NES) in Tampa, Fla., listen attentively to astronaut Kay Hire. She and Center Director Jim Kennedy were at the school to share the agency’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Kennedy is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Kay Hire poses with 8th grader Kristy Wiggins at Garland V. Stewart Magnet Middle School, a NASA Explorer School (NES) in Tampa, Fla. Hire joined Center Director Jim Kennedy at the school in sharing the agency’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Kennedy is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

FIRST LEGO League participants listen to Aerospace Education Specialist Chris Copelan explain the playing field for 'Nano Quest' during a recent FLL kickoff event at StenniSphere, the visitor center at NASA Stennis Space Center. The kickoff began the 2006 FLL competition season. Eighty-five teachers, mentors, parents and 9- to 14-year-old students from southern and central Mississippi came to SSC to hear the rules for Nano Quest. The challenge requires teams to spend eight weeks building and programming robots from LEGO Mindstorms kits. They'll battle their creations in local and regional competitions. The Dec. 2 competition at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College will involve about 200 students. FIRST LEGO League, considered the 'little league' of the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition, partners FIRST and the LEGO Group. Competitions aim to inspire and celebrate science and technology using real-world context and hands-on experimentation, and to promote the principles of team play and gracious professionalism. Because NASA advocates robotics and science-technology education, the agency and SSC support FIRST by providing team coaches, mentors and training, as well as competition event judges, referees, audio-visual and other volunteer staff personnel. Two of Mississippi's NASA Explorer Schools, Bay-Waveland Middle and Hattiesburg's Lillie Burney Elementary, were in attendance. The following schools were also represented: Ocean Springs Middle, Pearl Upper Elementary, Long Beach Middle, Jackson Preparatory Academy, North Woolmarket Middle, D'Iberville Middle, West Wortham Middle, Picayune's Roseland Park Baptist Academy and Nicholson Elementary, as well as two home-school groups from McComb and Brandon. Gulfport and Picayune Memorial-Pearl River high schools' FIRST Robotics teams conducted robotics demonstrations for the FLL crowd.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Center Director Jim Kennedy talks to students in Garland V. Stewart Magnet Middle School, a NASA Explorer School (NES) in Tampa, Fla. Kennedy made the trip with NASA astronaut Kay Hire to share the agency’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Kennedy is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Center Director Jim Kennedy talks to radio station WFLA-AM and Florida Radio Network about his trip to Garland V. Stewart Magnet Middle School, a NASA Explorer School (NES) in Tampa, Fla. Kennedy made the trip with NASA astronaut Kay Hire to share the agency’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Kennedy is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Center Director Jim Kennedy talks to WTSP-ABC News about his trip to Garland V. Stewart Magnet Middle School, a NASA Explorer School (NES) in Tampa, Fla. Kennedy made the trip with NASA astronaut Kay Hire to share the agency’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Kennedy is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Warren Elly (left), with WTVT-TV, Fox News, talks with Center Director Jim Kennedy at Garland V. Stewart Magnet Middle School, a NASA Explorer School (NES) in Tampa, Fla. Kennedy was joined by astronaut Kay Hire in sharing the agency’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Kennedy talked with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

Principal of Arlington Science Focus Elementary School, Mary Begley, second from right, introduces NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, right, and NASA’s SpaceX Crew-2 NASA astronauts Megan McArthur and Shane Kimbrough, and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, to the Space Shuttle Simulator during a visit to Arlington Science Focus Elementary School, Friday, June 10, 2022, in Arlington, Virginia. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

From left to right, NASA’s SpaceX Crew-2 Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, NASA astronauts Megan McArthur and Shane Kimbrough, NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, and U.S. Rep. Don Beyer, D-Va. are seen outside of Arlington Science Focus Elementary School at the conclusion of a visit to the school, Friday, June 10, 2022, in Arlington, Virginia. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

From left to right, NASA’s SpaceX Crew-2 Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, NASA astronauts Megan McArthur and Shane Kimbrough, NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, and U.S. Rep. Don Beyer, D-Va. are seen outside of Arlington Science Focus Elementary School at the conclusion of a visit to the school, Friday, June 10, 2022, in Arlington, Virginia. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Arlington Science Focus Elementary School teacher, Charles Harvey, right, speaks to NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, left, and NASA’s SpaceX Crew-2 NASA astronauts Megan McArthur and Shane Kimbrough, and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, and U.S. Rep. Don Beyer, D-Va., in the Space Shuttle Simulator room, during a visit to Arlington Science Focus Elementary School, Friday, June 10, 2022, in Arlington, Virginia. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

From left to right, NASA’s SpaceX Crew-2 Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, NASA astronauts Megan McArthur and Shane Kimbrough, Principal of Arlington Science Focus Elementary School, Mary Begley, NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, and U.S. Rep. Don Beyer, D-Va. pose for a photo during a visit to Arlington Science Focus Elementary School, Friday, June 10, 2022, in Arlington, Virginia. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

From left to right, NASA’s SpaceX Crew-2 Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, NASA astronauts Megan McArthur and Shane Kimbrough, and NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, are seen outside of Arlington Science Focus Elementary School at the conclusion of a visit to the school, Friday, June 10, 2022, in Arlington, Virginia. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

NASA’s Administrator, Charles Bolden speaks with the winning high school team in the Exploration Design Challenge prior to the award ceremony. Team ARES from the Governors School for Science and Technology in Hampton, Va. won the challenge with their radiation shield design, which will be built and flown aboard the Orion/EFT-1. The award was announced at the USA Science and Engineering Festival on April 25, 2014 at the Washington Convention Center. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Sponsors of Team ARES pose for a group photo with the winning high school team in the Exploration Design Challenge. Team ARES from the Governors School for Science and Technology in Hampton, Va. won the challenge with their radiation shield design, which will be built and flown aboard the Orion/EFT-1. The award was announced at the USA Science and Engineering Festival on April 25, 2014 at the Washington Convention Center. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

NASA’s SpaceX Crew-2 NASA astronauts Megan McArthur, left, and Shane Kimbrough, second from right, and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, right, present Principal of Arlington Science Focus Elementary School, Mary Begley, with a montage from their mission, while NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, third from right, and U.S. Rep. Don Beyer, D-Va., second from left, look on, during a visit to Arlington Science Focus Elementary School, Friday, June 10, 2022, in Arlington, Virginia. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Dr. Woodrow Whitlow, KSC deputy director, greets a student outside Trojan Intermediate School in Potosi, Mo. Students from three area schools — Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program. Whitlow visited the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Astronaut Dom Gorie (left) talks with KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow during a visit to Trojan Intermediate School in Potosi, Mo. Students from three area schools — Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program. Gorie accompanied Whitlow on a visit to the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. They are talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Astronaut Dom Gorie signs autographs for students at Trojan Intermediate School in Potosi, Mo. Gorie accompanied KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow on a visit to the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. They are talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. Students from three area schools — Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Trojan Intermediate School in Potosi, Mo., astronaut Dom Gorie talks to students and teachers. Students from three area schools— Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program. Gorie accompanied KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow on a visit to the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Whitlow and Gorie are talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Astronaut Dom Gorie signs autographs for students at Trojan Intermediate School in Potosi, Mo. Gorie accompanied KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow on a visit to the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. They are talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. Students from three area schools — Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Dr. Woodrow Whitlow, KSC deputy director, greets teachers at Trojan Intermediate School in Potosi, Mo. Students from three area schools — Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program. Whitlow visited the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow signs autographs for students at Trojan Intermediate School in Potosi, Mo. Students from three area schools — Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program. Whitlow visited the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow signs autographs for students at Trojan Intermediate School in Potosi, Mo. Students from three area schools — Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program. Whitlow visited the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Astronaut Dom Gorie joins students at Trojan Intermediate School in Potosi, Mo., for a group photo. Students from three area schools — Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program. Gorie accompanied KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow on a visit to the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. They are talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Astronaut Dom Gorie sits in the gymnasium stands with students at Trojan Intermediate School in Potosi, Mo. Gorie accompanied KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow on a visit to the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. They are talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. Students from three area schools — Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Rick Linnehan talks with a student at Ralph Bunche Middle School, a NASA Explorer School, in Atlanta, Ga. Linnehan joined Center Director Jim Kennedy at the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. The purpose of the school visit is to talk with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Ronald E. McNair High School in Atlanta, a NASA Explorer School, the school band performs for KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow Jr. and others, who are visiting to the school to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Whitlow is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Ronald E. McNair High School in Atlanta, a NASA Explorer School, the school band and dancers perform for KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow Jr. and others, who are visiting to the school to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Whitlow is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After his presentation, Center Director Jim Kennedy signs a memento for a student at Howard A. Doolin Middle School, Miami, Fla. The school is one of 100 taking part in the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) program. Kennedy visited the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He is talking with students in Florida and Georgia Explorer Schools about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After his presentation, students at Howard A. Doolin Middle School, Miami, Fla., gather around Center Director Jim Kennedy as he signs a memento for a student. The school is one of 100 taking part in the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) program. Kennedy visited the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He is talking with students in Florida and Georgia Explorer Schools about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After his presentation, Center Director Jim Kennedy signs a memento for a student at Howard A. Doolin Middle School, Miami, Fla. The school is one of 100 taking part in the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) program. Kennedy visited the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He is talking with students in Florida and Georgia Explorer Schools about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Terry Virts questions students from Immokalee Middle School in Naples, Fla., which is part of NASA’s Explorer School (NES) Program. Virts spoke about what it takes for mission success and the importance of teamwork. Virts accompanied Center Director Jim Kennedy on the visit to the school to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Immokalee is part of NASA’s Explorer School (NES) Program and is teamed with Pine Ridge Middle School. Kennedy is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. NES establishes a three-year partnership annually between NASA and 50 NASA Explorer Schools teams, consisting of teachers and education administrators from diverse communities nationwide.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Eduardo Tillet, principal of Howard A. Doolin Middle School, Miami, Fla., welcomes Center Director Jim Kennedy, plus NASA and KSC representatives, to the school. Doolin Middle School is one of 100 to take part in the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) program. Kennedy is talking with students, about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. He is visiting NES schools in Florida and Georgia to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow stands outside the office at Trojan Intermediate School in Potosi, Mo. He gave a presentation to students to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. Students from three area schools — Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Astronaut Dom Gorie stands outside the office at Trojan Intermediate School in Potosi, Mo. He and KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow gave a presentation to students to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. Students from three area schools — Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Astronaut Dom Gorie shares his experiences in space with the students and faculty at Trojan Intermediate School in Potosi, Mo. Students from three area schools — Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program. Gorie is accompanying KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow on the visit to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. They are talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A reporter from KJFF radio interviews astronaut Dom Gorie after his presentation at Trojan Intermediate School in Potosi, Mo. Students from three area schools — Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program. KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow and Gore are sharing America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. They are talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Astronaut Dom Gorie joins faculty members of Trojan Intermediate School in Potosi, Mo., for a photo. Students from three area schools — Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program. KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow and Gore are sharing America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. They are talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A school board member of Ronald E. McNair High School in Atlanta welcomes astronaut Leland Melvin (second from right) to the school. McNair is one of NASA’s Explorer Schools. Melvin accompanied KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow Jr. on a visit to the school to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Whitlow talked with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A reporter from KREI radio interviews KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow after his presentation at Trojan Intermediate School in Potosi, Mo. Students from three area schools — Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program. Whitlow is sharing America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. They are talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Astronaut Dom Gorie shares his experiences in space with the students and faculty at Trojan Intermediate School in Potosi, Mo. Students from three area schools — Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program. Gorie is accompanying KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow on the visit to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. They are talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - While visiting Immokalee Middle School in Naples, Fla., Center Director Jim Kennedy (far left) and astronaut Terry Virts (fourth from left) pose for a photo with school staff members. Second from left is the principal, Lisa Scallon. Immokalee is part of NASA’s Explorer School (NES) Program and is teamed with Pine Ridge Middle School. Kennedy visited the school to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. NES establishes a three-year partnership annually between NASA and 50 NASA Explorer Schools teams, consisting of teachers and education administrators from diverse communities nationwide.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Students at Immokalee Middle School in Naples, Fla., walk to Immokalee High School for a special presentation in the auditorium by Center Director Jim Kennedy and astronaut Terry Virts. Immokalee is part of NASA’s Explorer School (NES) Program and is teamed with Pine Ridge Middle School. Kennedy is visiting the school to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. NES establishes a three-year partnership annually between NASA and 50 NASA Explorer Schools teams, consisting of teachers and education administrators from diverse communities nationwide.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. — Christine Nixon (left), principal of Warrington Middle School in Pensacola, Fla., is presented a banner recognizing the school’s new partnership with NASA as a NASA Explorer School. At far right is NASA official Gregg Buckingham, who was joined by Center Director Jim Kennedy and astronaut Alan Poindexter for this kickoff event at the school. Kennedy is visiting the school to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation. He is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. NES establishes a three-year partnership annually between NASA and 50 NASA Explorer School teams, consisting of teachers and education administrators from diverse communities nationwide. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Prior to a presentation at Trojan Intermediate School in Potosi, Mo., Amber Marek, KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow, astronaut Dom Gorie, Superintendent of Schools Randy Davis and Principal Jo Peukert salute the American flag. Students from three area schools— Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program. Whitlow and Gorie are visiting the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. They are talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Trojan Intermediate School in Potosi, Mo., astronaut Dom Gorie poses with two members of the school district. Students from three area schools — Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program. Gorie accompanied KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow on a visit to the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Whitlow and Gorie are talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson introduces NASA’s SpaceX Crew-2 NASA astronauts Shane Kimbrough and Megan McArthur, and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, during a visit to Arlington Science Focus Elementary School, Friday, June 10, 2022, in Arlington, Virginia. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson gives remarks during a visit to Arlington Science Focus Elementary School by U.S. Rep. Don Beyer, D-Va. and NASA’s SpaceX Crew-2 NASA astronauts Megan McArthur and Shane Kimbrough, and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, Friday, June 10, 2022, in Arlington, Virginia. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson introduces NASA’s SpaceX Crew-2 NASA astronauts Shane Kimbrough and Megan McArthur, and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, during a visit to Arlington Science Focus Elementary School, Friday, June 10, 2022, in Arlington, Virginia. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

U.S. Rep. Don Beyer, D-Va. gives remarks during a visit to Arlington Science Focus Elementary School by NASA Administrator Bill Nelson and NASA’s SpaceX Crew-2 NASA astronauts Megan McArthur and Shane Kimbrough, and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, Friday, June 10, 2022, in Arlington, Virginia. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson gives remarks during a visit to Arlington Science Focus Elementary School by U.S. Rep. Don Beyer, D-Va. and NASA’s SpaceX Crew-2 NASA astronauts Megan McArthur and Shane Kimbrough, and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, Friday, June 10, 2022, in Arlington, Virginia. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

NASA’s SpaceX Crew-2 NASA astronauts Megan McArthur, left, and Shane Kimbrough, second from right, and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, right, present U.S. Rep. Don Beyer, D-Va., second from left, with a montage from their mission, while NASA Administrator Bill Nelson looks on, during a visit to Arlington Science Focus Elementary School, Friday, June 10, 2022, in Arlington, Virginia. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, second from right, and U.S. Rep. Don Beyer, D-Va., right, and NASA’s SpaceX Crew-2 NASA astronauts Megan McArthur and Shane Kimbrough, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, sing the national anthem during opening ceremonies of a visit to Arlington Science Focus Elementary School, Friday, June 10, 2022, in Arlington, Virginia. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson gives remarks during a visit to Arlington Science Focus Elementary School by U.S. Rep. Don Beyer, D-Va. and NASA’s SpaceX Crew-2 NASA astronauts Megan McArthur and Shane Kimbrough, and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, Friday, June 10, 2022, in Arlington, Virginia. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Astronaut David Wolf addresses students and faculty of Howard A. Doolin Middle School, Miami, Fla., about his experiences in space. Doolin Middle School is one of 100 to take part in the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) program. Wolf joins Center Director Jim Kennedy on his visit to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He is talking with students in Florida and Georgia Explorer Schools about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Astronaut David Wolf addresses students and faculty of Howard A. Doolin Middle School, Miami, Fla., about his experiences in space. Doolin Middle School is one of 100 to take part in the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) program. Wolf joins Center Director Jim Kennedy on his visit to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He is talking with students in Florida and Georgia Explorer Schools about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Center Director Jim Kennedy (center) greets a student after his presentation at Howard A. Doolin Middle School, Miami, Fla. The school is one of 100 taking part in the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) program. The purpose of Kennedy’s visit is to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He is talking with students in Florida and Georgia Explorer Schools about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Center Director Jim Kennedy (left) is thanked by Principal Eduardo Tillet for his presentation to the faculty and students of Howard A. Doolin Middle School, Miami, Fla. The school is one of 100 taking part in the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) program. The purpose of Kennedy’s visit is to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He is talking with students in Florida and Georgia Explorer Schools about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Center Director Jim Kennedy poses for a photo with students at Howard A. Doolin Middle School, Miami, Fla. The school is one of 100 taking part in the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) program. The purpose of Kennedy’s visit is to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He is talking with students in Florida and Georgia Explorer Schools about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Center Director Jim Kennedy addresses students and faculty of Howard A. Doolin Middle School, Miami, Fla. Doolin Middle School is one of 100 to take part in the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) program. Kennedy is visiting Explorer Schools in Florida and Georgia to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He is talking with students, about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. — Christine Nixon, principal of Warrington Middle School in Pensacola, Fla., introduces guests on stage to the audience of students and faculty. The occasion is the kickoff of the NASA Explorer School (NES) program at the school. Seated on stage are (from left) Jim Paul, superintendent of Escambia County Schools; a school official; Denise Jamison, the school’s NASA Team facilitator; Les Gold, NASA aerospace specialist; Gregg Buckingham, NASA official; Jim Kennedy, director of Kennedy Space Center; Charles Baire, District representative, representing Congressman Jeff Miller; Letitia Wheeler, student at Warrington Middle School; Alan Poindexter, NASA astronaut; and Clarence Bostic, NES coordinator. Kennedy is visiting the school to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation. He is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. NES establishes a three-year partnership annually between NASA and 50 NASA Explorer School teams, consisting of teachers and education administrators from diverse communities nationwide. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Jim Jennings, deputy associate administrator for Institutions and Asset Management at NASA Headquarters, talks to students at Gainesville Elementary School, a NASA Explorer School in Gainesville, Ga. Jennings visited the school to share the new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Also visiting the school was astronaut Leland Melvin and KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow Jr., seated at right. Whitlow talked with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the podium, KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow talks to students in the gymnasium at Trojan Intermediate School in Potosi, Mo. At left is Amber Marek, with the NASA News Center; at right is astronaut Dom Gorie. Students from three area schools — Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program. Whitlow and Gorie are visiting the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. They are talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Students at Ronald E. McNair High School in Atlanta, a NASA Explorer School, wait for the presentation by KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow Jr., who is visiting to the school to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Whitlow talked with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After his presentation at Howard A. Doolin Middle School, Miami, Fla., astronaut David Wolf signs a memento for a student. The school is one of 100 taking part in the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) program. Center Director Jim Kennedy and Wolf visited the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. They talked with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- During lunch in the library at Howard A. Doolin Middle School, Miami, Fla., astronaut David Wolf pauses for a photo with a member of the school board. Doolin Middle School is one of 100 to take part in the NASA Explorer Schools program. Wolf joined Center Director Jim Kennedy to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Kennedy is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After his presentation at Howard A. Doolin Middle School, Miami, Fla., astronaut David Wolf signs a memento for a student. The school is one of 100 taking part in the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) program. Center Director Jim Kennedy and Wolf visited the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. They talked with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After his presentation, astronaut David Wolf signs a memento for a student at Howard A. Doolin Middle School, Miami, Fla. The school is one of 100 taking part in the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) program. Center Director Jim Kennedy and Wolf visited the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. They talked with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Center Director Jim Kennedy addresses students and faculty of Howard A. Doolin Middle School, Miami, Fla. Doolin Middle School is one of 100 to take part in the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) program. Kennedy is visiting NES schools in Florida and Georgia to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He is talking with students, about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After his presentation at Howard A. Doolin Middle School, Miami, Fla., astronaut David Wolf signs a memento for a student. The school is one of 100 taking part in the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) program. Center Director Jim Kennedy and Wolf visited the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. They talked with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Terry Virts talks to students and staff of Immokalee Middle School in Naples, Fla., about what it takes for mission success and the importance of teamwork. Virts accompanied Center Director Jim Kennedy on the visit to the school to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Immokalee is part of NASA’s Explorer School (NES) Program and is teamed with Pine Ridge Middle School. Kennedy is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. NES establishes a three-year partnership annually between NASA and 50 NASA Explorer Schools teams, consisting of teachers and education administrators from diverse communities nationwide.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Center Director Jim Kennedy (left) talks to staff members of Immokalee Middle School in Naples, Fla., which is part of NASA’s Explorer School (NES) Program and teamed with Pine Ridge Middle School. Kennedy visited the school to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. NES establishes a three-year partnership annually between NASA and 50 NASA Explorer Schools teams, consisting of teachers and education administrators from diverse communities nationwide.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Immokalee High School in Naples, Fla., Center Director Jim Kennedy talks to students of Immokalee Middle School to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Immokalee is part of NASA’s Explorer School (NES) Program and is teamed with Pine Ridge Middle School. Kennedy is talking about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. NES establishes a three-year partnership annually between NASA and 50 NASA Explorer Schools teams, consisting of teachers and education administrators from diverse communities nationwide.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Les Gold, Aerospace Education specialist with KSC, speaks to students at Immokalee Middle School in Naples, Fla. At right is astronaut Terry Virts. Gold and Virts accompanied Center Director Jim Kennedy for a presentation at the school to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Immokalee is part of NASA’s Explorer School (NES) Program and is teamed with Pine Ridge Middle School. Kennedy is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. NES establishes a three-year partnership annually between NASA and 50 NASA Explorer Schools teams, consisting of teachers and education administrators from diverse communities nationwide.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Immokalee High School in Naples, Fla., Center Director Jim Kennedy talks to students of Immokalee Middle School to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Immokalee is part of NASA’s Explorer School (NES) Program and is teamed with Pine Ridge Middle School. Kennedy is talking about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. NES establishes a three-year partnership annually between NASA and 50 NASA Explorer Schools teams, consisting of teachers and education administrators from diverse communities nationwide.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Terry Virts talks to students and staff of Immokalee Middle School in Naples, Fla., about what it takes for mission success and the importance of teamwork. Virts accompanied Center Director Jim Kennedy on the visit to the school to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Immokalee is part of NASA’s Explorer School (NES) Program and is teamed with Pine Ridge Middle School. Kennedy is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. NES establishes a three-year partnership annually between NASA and 50 NASA Explorer Schools teams, consisting of teachers and education administrators from diverse communities nationwide.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Astronaut Dom Gorie presents a photo montage to Jo Peukert, principal of Trojan Intermediate School in Potosi, Mo. Gorie accompanied KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow on a visit to the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. They are talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. Students from three area schools — Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Astronaut Dom Gorie (left) talks with a faculty member during a visit to Trojan Intermediate School in Potosi, Mo. Students from three area schools — Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program. Gorie accompanied KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow on a visit to the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Whitlow and Gorie are talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

NASA Explorer School Pilot Program

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. — During kickoff of the NASA Explorer School program at Warrington Middle School in Pensacola, Fla., Center Director Jim Kennedy talks to students and faculty. Seated at left is Christine Nixon, principal of Warrington Middle School. Joining Kennedy for the event was NASA aerospace specialist Les Gold, NASA official Gregg Buckingham, and astronaut Alan Poindexter. Kennedy is visiting the school to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation. He is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. NES establishes a three-year partnership annually between NASA and 50 NASA Explorer School teams, consisting of teachers and education administrators from diverse communities nationwide. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. — Christine Nixon (left), principal of Warrington Middle School in Pensacola, Fla., joins Kennedy Space Center Jim Kennedy and the school’s NASA Explorer School team to recognize the new partnership with NASA. Kennedy is visiting the school to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation. He is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. NES establishes a three-year partnership annually between NASA and 50 NASA Explorer School teams, consisting of teachers and education administrators from diverse communities nationwide. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. — Christine Nixon, principal of Warrington Middle School in Pensacola, Fla., introduces guests on stage to the audience of students and faculty. The occasion is the kickoff of the NASA Explorer School program at the school. Among those seated on stage are Jim Paul, superintendent of Escambia County Schools; Denise Jamison, the school’s NASA Team facilitator; Les Gold, NASA aerospace specialist; Gregg Buckingham, NASA official; Jim Kennedy, director of Kennedy Space Center; Charles Baire, District representative, representing Congressman Jeff Miller; Letitia Wheeler, student at Warrington Middle School; and Alan Poindexter, NASA astronaut. Kennedy is visiting the school to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation. He is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. NES establishes a three-year partnership annually between NASA and 50 NASA Explorer School teams, consisting of teachers and education administrators from diverse communities nationwide. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

NASA Explorer Schools - NASA Careers Panel Presentation

NASA Explorer Schools - NASA Careers Panel Presentation

NASA Explorer Schools - NASA Careers Panel Presentation

NASA Explorer Schools - NASA Careers Panel Presentation

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. — At Warrington Middle School in Pensacola, Fla., astronaut Alan Poindexter talks to students. Poindexter joined Center Director Jim Kennedy on a visit to the school, which has been named one of NASA’s Explorer Schools (NES). Kennedy is visiting the school to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation. He is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. NES establishes a three-year partnership annually between NASA and 50 NASA Explorer School teams, consisting of teachers and education administrators from diverse communities nationwide. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. — At Warrington Middle School in Pensacola, Fla., astronaut Alan Poindexter explains a science principal to students. Poindexter joined Center Director Jim Kennedy and others on a visit to the school, which has been named one of NASA’s Explorer Schools (NES). Kennedy is visiting the school to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation. He is talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. NES establishes a three-year partnership annually between NASA and 50 NASA Explorer School teams, consisting of teachers and education administrators from diverse communities nationwide. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

NASA’s Administrator, Charles Bolden (left), President/CEO of Lockheed Martin, Marillyn Hewson (right), and astronaut Rex Walheim (back row) pose for a group photo with the winning high school team in the Exploration Design Challenge. Team ARES from the Governors School for Science and Technology in Hampton, Va. won the challenge with their radiation shield design, which will be built and flown aboard the Orion/EFT-1. The award was announced at the USA Science and Engineering Festival on April 25, 2014 at the Washington Convention Center. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Astronaut Dom Gorie (left) and KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow (right) join students in the gymnasium stands at Trojan Intermediate School in Potosi, Mo. Students from three area schools — Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program. Whitlow and astronaut Dom Gorie are sharing America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. They are talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Mayor Wayne Malugen of Potosi, Mo., poses with astronaut Dom Gorie after a presentation by KSC Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow and Gorie to students and faculty at Trojan Intermediate School. Whitlow and Gorie are sharing America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. They are talking with students about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space. Students from three area schools — Potosi High School, John Evans Middle School and Trojan — are on a team taking part in NASA’s Explorer Schools program.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Center Director Jim Kennedy signs the costume helmet of one of the students who welcomed NASA representatives to Oscar Patterson Elementary Magnet School in Panama City, Fla. He other NASA officials visited the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. Kennedy is talking with students at NASA Explorer Schools in Florida and Georgia about our destiny as explorers, NASA’s stepping stone approach to exploring Earth, the Moon, Mars and beyond, how space impacts our lives, and how people and machines rely on each other in space.