Proposed MSL Site in NE Syrtis Major

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. — 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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Students at Ralph Bunche Middle School, a NASA Explorer School, in Atlanta, Ga., listen intently to Center Director Jim Kennedy’s presentation. Kennedy is visiting NES sites to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He was accompanied by astronaut Rick Linnehan on the visit. 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. - Astronaut Rick Linnehan talks to students in a classroom at Ralph Bunche Middle School, a NASA Explorer School, in Atlanta, Ga. Linnehan accompanied Center Director Jim Kennedy, who was visiting the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. The visit is one of many Kennedy has made to NES sites in Florida and Georgia 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. - Center Director Jim Kennedy (center) and Principal Aaron Fernander (right) visit a classroom in Ralph Bunche Middle School, a NASA Explorer School, in Atlanta, Ga. At left is Ralph Thomas, assistant administrator for Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization at NASA. Kennedy is visiting NES sites to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He was accompanied by astronaut Rick Linnehan on the visit. 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. - Center Director Jim Kennedy talks to students and faculty at Ralph Bunche Middle School, a NASA Explorer School, in Atlanta, Ga. Kennedy is visiting NES sites to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He was accompanied by astronaut Rick Linnehan on the visit. 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. - Astronaut Rick Linnehan talks to a classroom teacher at Ralph Bunche Middle School, a NASA Explorer School, in Atlanta, Ga. Linnehan accompanied Center Director Jim Kennedy, who was visiting the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. The visit is one of many Kennedy has made to NES sites in Florida and Georgia 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. - Center Director Jim Kennedy (right) talks to Aaron Fernander, principal of Ralph Bunche Middle School, a NASA Explorer School, in Atlanta, Ga. Kennedy is visiting NES sites to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He was accompanied by astronaut Rick Linnehan on the visit. 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. - Warren Edwards, at the podium, with the Aerospace Education Services Program (AESP) at Langley Research Center, Hampton, Va., speaks to students and faculty at Ralph Bunche Middle School, a NASA Explorer School, in Atlanta, Ga. On the right is Jim Gerard, also with AESP. They accompanied Center Director Jim Kennedy, who is visiting NES sites 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. - A teacher (right) at Ralph Bunche Middle School, a NASA Explorer School, in Atlanta, Ga., shows a science project to astronaut Rick Linnehan (left) and Center Director Jim Kennedy (center). Linnehan and Kennedy were at the school to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. The visit is one of many Kennedy has made to NES sites in Florida and Georgia 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. - Astronaut Rick Linnehan shares his experiences in space with students and faculty at Ralph Bunche Middle School, a NASA Explorer School, in Atlanta, Ga. Linnehan accompanied Center Director Jim Kennedy, who is visiting NES sites 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. - Astronaut Rick Linnehan talks to students and faculty at Ralph Bunche Middle School, a NASA Explorer School, in Atlanta, Ga. Linnehan accompanied Center Director Jim Kennedy, who is visiting NES sites 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. - Astronaut Rick Linnehan shares his experiences in space with students and faculty at Ralph Bunche Middle School, a NASA Explorer School, in Atlanta, Ga. Linnehan accompanied Center Director Jim Kennedy, who is visiting NES sites 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.

Cape Canaveral, Fla. -- Priscilla Moore, NASA Education Programs Specialist, speaks to students from across the nation gathered for the closing events of the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) symposium. During the NES gathering, students presented their investigation project to their peers, scientists, engineers and education specialists. About 60 fourth- through 12-grade students nationwide are at the center May 4-7 participating in tours of processing and launch facilities and the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, as well as several educational activities and a career panel question-and-answer session. About 30 teachers will receive professional development opportunities during the symposium. The participants were competitively selected after they completed an original investigation focused on existing NASA missions or research interests. Photo Credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

Cape Canaveral, Fla. -- Students and teachers from across the nation gathered for a photo opportunity during closing events of the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) symposium. During the NES gathering, students presented their investigation project to their peers, scientists, engineers and education specialists. About 60 fourth- through 12-grade students nationwide are at the center May 4-7 participating in tours of processing and launch facilities and the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, as well as several educational activities and a career panel question-and-answer session. About 30 teachers will receive professional development opportunities during the symposium. The participants were competitively selected after they completed an original investigation focused on existing NASA missions or research interests. Photo Credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

Cape Canaveral, Fla. -- Students and teachers from across the nation gathered for a photo opportunity during closing events of the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) symposium. During the NES gathering, students presented their investigation project to their peers, scientists, engineers and education specialists. About 60 fourth- through 12-grade students nationwide are at the center May 4-7 participating in tours of processing and launch facilities and the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, as well as several educational activities and a career panel question-and-answer session. About 30 teachers will receive professional development opportunities during the symposium. The participants were competitively selected after they completed an original investigation focused on existing NASA missions or research interests. Photo Credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

Cape Canaveral, Fla. -- Students and teachers from across the nation gathered for a photo opportunity during closing events of the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) symposium. During the NES gathering, students presented their investigation project to their peers, scientists, engineers and education specialists. About 60 fourth- through 12-grade students nationwide are at the center May 4-7 participating in tours of processing and launch facilities and the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, as well as several educational activities and a career panel question-and-answer session. About 30 teachers will receive professional development opportunities during the symposium. The participants were competitively selected after they completed an original investigation focused on existing NASA missions or research interests. Photo Credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

Cape Canaveral, Fla. -- Students from across the nation gathered at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida for the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) symposium. In the Center for Space Education at Kennedy, a student participates in a hands-on activity as an education specialist looks on. During the NES event, students presented their investigation project to their peers, scientists, engineers and education specialists. About 60 fourth- through 12-grade students nationwide are at the center May 4-7 participating in tours of processing and launch facilities and the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, as well as several educational activities and a career panel question-and-answer session. About 30 teachers will receive professional development opportunities during the symposium. The participants were competitively selected after they completed an original investigation focused on existing NASA missions or research interests. Photo Credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

Cape Canaveral, Fla. -- Students and teachers from across the nation gathered for a photo opportunity during closing events of the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) symposium. During the NES gathering, students presented their investigation project to their peers, scientists, engineers and education specialists. About 60 fourth- through 12-grade students nationwide are at the center May 4-7 participating in tours of processing and launch facilities and the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, as well as several educational activities and a career panel question-and-answer session. About 30 teachers will receive professional development opportunities during the symposium. The participants were competitively selected after they completed an original investigation focused on existing NASA missions or research interests. Photo Credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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. -- 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. - Center Director Jim Kennedy (center) and astronaut Roger Crouch (far left) present a NASA Explorer School (NES) banner to the NES team at South Plantation High School in Plantation, Fla. Kennedy, Crouch and other NASA KSC officials are visiting the school to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation. During the visit, Crouch 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. The Agency's NES program 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. - The NASA Explorer School (NES) team at Kennedy Space Center poses with the NES team at South Plantation High School in Plantation, Fla. Center Director Jim Kennedy is fifth from the right. On the far right is Hortense Burt, with the Education Office at Kennedy. The Kennedy team, which also included astronaut Roger Couch, is visiting the school to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation. During the visit, Crouch 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. The Agency's NES program 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

Cape Canaveral, Fla. -- Students from across the nation gathered at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida for the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) symposium. At the microphone is NASA Explorer Schools Lead Education Specialist Alicia Baturoni from NASA's Glenn Research Center. From left, the panel includes aerospace engineer with NASA's Launch Services Program Caley Burke, Gary Letchworth who is working on the Orion multipurpose crew vehicle, NASA Contract Specialist Nicole Rivera, wildlife ecologist with Innovative Heath Applications Becky Bolt, Tim Griffin who works in Kennedy's Chemical Analysis Branch, Xaivian Raymond with NASA Human Resources, aerospace engineer Sarah Cox who works on the space shuttle's thermal protection system, and chemical engineer Annie Caraccio. During the NES event, students presented their investigation project to their peers, scientists, engineers and education specialists. About 60 fourth- through 12-grade students nationwide are at the center May 4-7 participating in tours of processing and launch facilities and the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, as well as several educational activities and a career panel question-and-answer session. About 30 teachers will receive professional development opportunities during the symposium. The participants were competitively selected after they completed an original investigation focused on existing NASA missions or research interests. Photo Credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. — During kickoff of the NASA Explorer School program at Warrington Middle School in Pensacola, Fla., NASA aerospace specialist Les Gold involves a student in a demonstration on stage. Gold, Center Director Jim Kennedy, astronaut Alan Poindexter and others are 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. — During kickoff of the NASA Explorer School program at Warrington Middle School in Pensacola, Fla., NASA aerospace specialist Les Gold involves a student in a demonstration on stage. Gold, Center Director Jim Kennedy, astronaut Alan Poindexter and others are 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., 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

Cape Canaveral, Fla. -- Rachael Power, education specialist sets up a display for fourth- through 12-grade students and their teachers from across the nation during closing events at the NASA Explorer Schools Symposium in Florida. During the NES gathering, students presented their investigation project to their peers, scientists, engineers and education specialists. About 60 fourth- through 12-grade students nationwide are at the center May 4-7 participating in tours of processing and launch facilities and the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, as well as several educational activities and a career panel question-and-answer session. About 30 teachers will receive professional development opportunities during the symposium. The participants were competitively selected after they completed an original investigation focused on existing NASA missions or research interests. Photo Credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Center Director Jim Kennedy (left) and astronaut Roger Crouch talk to students at South Plantation High School in Plantation, Fla. Kennedy and Crouch are visiting the NASA Explorer School (NES) to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation. During the visit, Crouch 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. The Agency's NES program 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. - Center Director Jim Kennedy and Hortense Burt, with the Education Office at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, greet a student at South Plantation High School in Plantation, Fla. Kennedy, Burt and other Kennedy representatives are visiting the NASA Explorer School (NES) to share the vision for space exploration with the next generation. Astronaut Roger Crouch joined the Kennedy team. During the visit, Crouch 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. The Agency's NES program 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. -- 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 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 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. -- 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. -- 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. -- 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. -- 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. -- 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 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. -- 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 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.

This image taken by NASA Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter shows the spectacularly preserved viscous flow on the NE rim of Byrgius A crater.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Astronaut David Wolf answers questions from a student on stage at Howard A. Doolin Middle School, Miami, Fla., during his talk 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 (seated at lower left) 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 answers questions from a student on stage at Howard A. Doolin Middle School, Miami, Fla., during his talk 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 (seated at lower left) 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 answers questions from a student on stage at Howard A. Doolin Middle School, Miami, Fla., during his talk 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 (seated at lower left) 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 (left) and Center Director Jim Kennedy (right, with boy) pose for a photo with students and faculty in Howard A. Doolin Middle School, Miami, Fla., plus other NASA and KSC representatives (rear). 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. -- Astronaut David Wolf answers questions from a student on stage at Howard A. Doolin Middle School, Miami, Fla., during his talk 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 (seated at lower left) 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.

Faint clouds can be seen to the northeast of this crater. The bright and dark bands against the NE crater rim interior and exterior are bright clouds and their shadows

These windstreaks are located in northern Terra Tyrrhena. The wind was blowing from NE to SW to create the streaks in the lee of the craters. This image is from NASA Mars Odyssey.

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. - Astronaut Dr. David A. Wolf (center) and External Relations Director Lisa Malone (right) learn about these students’ science project during a visit to Carol City Elementary School, a NASA Explorer School, in Miami, Fla. Wolf and Malone accompanied Center Director Jim Kennedy, who is sharing 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. - Center Director Jim Kennedy (right) and External Relations Director Lisa Malone (second from right) talk to teachers at Carol City Elementary School, a NASA Explorer School, in Miami, Fla. Kennedy made the tour to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He was also accompanied by astronaut Dr. David A. Wolf. 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. - Claudia Hessing, the principal of Carol City Elementary School, a NASA Explorer School, in Miami, Fla., introduces NASA guests in the front left row, Center Director Jim Kennedy (center) and astronaut Dr. David A. Wolf (far left). Kennedy made the tour to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He was accompanied by astronaut Dr. David A. Wolf. 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 speaks to students, faculty and guests at Carol City Elementary School, a NASA Explorer School, in Miami, Fla. Kennedy made the tour to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He was accompanied by astronaut Dr. David A. Wolf. 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 Dr. David A. Wolf (sixth from left), Center Director Jim Kennedy (fourth from right) and Principal Claudia Hessing (second from right) pose with students during Kennedy and Wolf’s visit to Carol City Elementary School, a NASA Explorer School, in Miami, Fla. Kennedy is sharing America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He and Wolf 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 greets a mother and daughter while on a visit to Carol City Elementary School, a NASA Explorer School, in Miami, Fla. Kennedy made the tour to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He was accompanied by astronaut Dr. David A. Wolf. 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 (right) is joined by two students at Carol City Elementary School, a NASA Explorer School, in Miami, Fla., which Kennedy visited 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. - Students at Carol City Elementary School, a NASA Explorer School, in Miami, Fla., take part in a presentation by Center Director Jim Kennedy about America’s new vision for space exploration 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 Dr. David A. Wolf learns about a science project from students at Carol City Elementary School, a NASA Explorer School, in Miami, Fla. Wolf is accompanying Center Director Jim Kennedy on a visit to the school 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. - Center Director Jim Kennedy (right) talks to a reporter from the Miami Herald about his visit to Carol City Elementary School, a NASA Explorer School, in Miami, Fla. Kennedy is sharing 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 Dr. David A. Wolf looks at students’ science project creating tornados during a visit to Carol City Elementary School, a NASA Explorer School, in Miami, Fla. Wolf is accompanying Center Director Jim Kennedy on a visit to the school 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. - Center Director Jim Kennedy (left) and astronaut Dr. David A. Wolf flank two of the teachers at Carol City Elementary School, a NASA Explorer School, in Miami, Fla., which Kennedy visited 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. - Astronaut Dr. David A. Wolf speaks to students, faculty and guests at Carol City Elementary School, a NASA Explorer School, in Miami, Fla. Wolf and Center Director Jim Kennedy made the tour 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. - Center Director Jim Kennedy (left) speaks to students, faculty and guests at Carol City Elementary School, a NASA Explorer School, in Miami, Fla. Kennedy made the tour to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He was accompanied by astronaut Dr. David A. Wolf. 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 Carol City Elementary School, a NASA Explorer School, in Miami, Fla., are ready to greet Center Director Jim Kennedy on his visit to the school. Kennedy made the tour to share America’s new vision for space exploration with the next generation of explorers. He was accompanied by astronaut Dr. Dr. David A. Wolf. 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 Dr. David A. Wolf talks to a teacher about students’ projects in a class at Carol City Elementary School, a NASA Explorer School, in Miami, Fla. Wolf is accompanying Center Director Jim Kennedy on a visit to the school 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. - At Astrotech Space Operations facilities in Titusville, Fla., the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft is ready for encapsulation before being moved from its current location in the hazardous processing facility, where it has been since arrival March 10. It is being moved to an adjacent nonhazardous payload processing facility where the remainder of its final assembly and testing will be completed. The spacecraft will return to the hazardous processing facility when ready for fueling, spin balance testing and mating to the upper stage. MESSENGER is scheduled to launch no earlier than July 30 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. MESSENGER is a scientific investigation of the planet Mercury, the least explored terrestrial planet. Understanding Mercury and how it was formed is essential to understanding the other terrestrial planets and their evolution. The MESSENGER mission will orbit Mercury after making two flybys of the planet, using data collected during the flybys as an initial guide to perform a more focused scientific investigation of this mysterious world. The spacecraft will enter Mercury orbit in March 2011 and carry out comprehensive measurements for one full Earth year.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Dr. David A. Wolf (right) talks to students during a visit to Carol City Elementary School, a NASA Explorer School, in Miami, Fla. Wolf accompanied Center Director Jim Kennedy, who is sharing 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.

This nadir camera view was captured by NASA Terra spacecraft around Kruger National Park in NE South Africa. The bright white feature is the Palabora Copper Mine, and the water body near upper right is Lake Massingir in Mozambique.

On Jan. 7, 2011, NASA Terra spacecraft captured this image of the inundated city of Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia. Torrential rains in NE Australia caused the Fitzroy River to overflow its banks and flood much of the city.

Edward Harris Jr. Middle School NES Kick-Off Assembly

3/4 rear view with pilot Merriweather - 60 degrees bank angle. NE-2 degree of freedom simulator set-up for pitch and roll motion.

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.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Shawn McCollough, principal of Gainesville Elementary School, a NASA Explorer School (NES) in Gainesville, Ga., and a teacher sign a Memorandum of Understanding between KSC and the school for the NES program. Schools from across the country are eligible to apply online for an opportunity to partner with NASA in a program designed to bring engaging mathematics, science and technology learning to educators, students and families.

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.

Jonah Saunders, Electrical Engineering Pathways Intern, poses in front of Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on April 17, 2023.

Workers sign the banner marking the successful delivery of a liquid oxygen test tank, called Tardis, in the Prototype Development Laboratory at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Engineers and technicians worked together to develop the tank and build it at the lab to support cryogenic testing at Johnson Space Center's White Sands Test Facility in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The 12-foot-tall, 3,810-pound aluminum tank will be shipped to White Sands for testing.

NASA Kennedy Space Center's Engineering Director Pat Simpkins, at left, talks with Michael E. Johnson, a project engineer; and Emilio Cruz, deputy division chief in the Laboratories, Development and Testing Division, inside the Prototype Development Laboratory. A banner signing event was held to mark the successful delivery of a liquid oxygen test tank, called Tardis. Engineers and technicians worked together to develop the tank and build it at the lab to support cryogenic testing at Johnson Space Center's White Sands Test Facility in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The 12-foot-tall, 3,810-pound aluminum tank will be shipped to White Sands for testing.

Inside the Prototype Development Laboratory at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers in the lab hold a banner marking the successful delivery of a liquid oxygen test tank called Tardis. Engineers and technicians worked together to develop the tank to build it at the lab to support cryogenic testing at Johnson Space Center's White Sands Test Facility in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The 12-foot-tall, 3,810-pound aluminum tank will be shipped to White Sands for testing.

A liquid oxygen test tank was completed in the Prototype Development Laboratory at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. A banner signing event marked the successful delivery of the tank called Tardis. Engineers and technicians worked together to develop the tank and build it at the lab to support cryogenic testing at Johnson Space Center's White Sands Test Facility in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The 12-foot-tall, 3,810-pound aluminum tank will be shipped to White Sands for testing.

Inside the Prototype Development Laboratory at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, engineers and technicians hold a banner marking the successful delivery of a liquid oxygen test tank called Tardis. From left, are Todd Steinrock, chief, Fabrication and Development Branch, Prototype Development Lab; David McLaughlin, electrical engineering technician; Phil Stroda, mechanical engineering technician; Perry Dickey, lead electrical engineering technician; and Harold McAmis, lead mechanical engineering technician. Engineers and technicians worked together to develop the tank and build it at the lab to support cryogenic testing at Johnson Space Center's White Sands Test Facility in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The 12-foot-tall, 3,810-pound aluminum tank will be shipped to White Sands for testing.

Jonah Saunders, Electrical Engineering Pathways Intern, poses in front of Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on April 17, 2023.

NASA Kennedy Space Center's Engineering Director Pat Simpkins signs the banner marking the successful delivery of a liquid oxygen test tank, called Tardis, in the Prototype Development Laboratory at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Engineers and technicians worked together to develop the tank and build it to support cryogenic testing at Johnson Space Center's White Stands Test Facility in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The 12-foot-tall, 3,810-pound aluminum tank will be shipped to White Sands for testing.

NASA Kennedy Space Center's Engineering Directorate held a banner signing event in the Prototype Development Laboratory to mark the successful delivery of a liquid oxygen test tank, called Tardis. Engineers and technicians worked together to develop the tank and build it to support cryogenic testing at Johnson Space Center's White Stands Test Facility in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The 12-foot-tall, 3,810-pound aluminum tank will be shipped to White Sands for testing.

MSFC Building 4663, NE corner view of Huntsville Operations Support Center, housing the Payload Operations Integration Center (POIC). The POIC supports ongoing flight operations and scientific experiments aboard the International Space Station (ISS)

Earth observation taken during a night pass by an Expedition 36 crew member on board the International Space Station (ISS). Per Twitter message: Was not expecting this as we flew over the NE US this morning!

Earth observation taken during a night pass by the Expedition 43 crew aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Folder lists this as time lapse From Gibraltar NE-bound.

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. - Lisa Scallon (far left), principal of Immokalee Middle School in Naples, Fla., welcomes astronaut Terry Virts to the school, which is part of NASA’s Explorer Schools (NES) Program. Immokalee and Pine Ridge Middle School are an NES team. Also seen are Lisa Malone (second from left), director, KSC’s External Relations and Business Development directorate, and Pam Biegert, chief of Educational Services at KSC, who both accompanied Center Director Jim Kennedy on the trip. Kennedy is visiting the school to share the 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 Howard Bishop Middle School in Gainesville, Fla., during a presentation that shared the new vision for space exploration, the Expedition 8 crew, Commander Michael Foale and Flight Engineer Alexander Kaleri, participated in a downlink from the International Space Station (seen on the screen on stage). Deputy Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow Jr. represented KSC, 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. Howard Bishop Middle School is one of 50 nationwide (four in Florida) in the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) Program. NES establishes a three-year partnership between NASA and 50 NASA Explorer Schools teams, consisting of teachers and education administrators from diverse communities nationwide.

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. - KSC Deputy Director Woodrow Whitlow Jr. looks at students’ projects in a classroom at Howard Bishop Middle School in Gainesville, Fla. Dr. Whitlow shared the new vision for space exploration with the students, the next generation of explorers. Whitlow talked 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. The presentation also included a downlink from the International Space Station for students to ask questions of the Expedition 8 crew, Commander Michael Foale and Flight Engineer Alexander Kaleri. Howard Bishop Middle School is one of 50 nationwide (four in Florida) in the NASA Explorer Schools (NES) Program. NES establishes a three-year partnership between NASA and 50 NASA Explorer Schools teams, consisting of teachers and education administrators from diverse communities nationwide.