#USA #NASA #Washington D.C. #Artemis II #Moon Mascot

NASA Goes Live on Twitch for the Moon Mascot Challenge

NASA is taking its engagement with the public to new heights—literally! On May 13, 2025, the legendary space agency will host a live event on its official Twitch channel, where fans and space enthusiasts can participate in designing a zero gravity indicator for the upcoming Artemis II mission. This event will not only highlight NASA's innovative spirit but also invite people from around the globe, of all ages, to unleash their creativity.

What is the Moon Mascot Challenge?

The Moon Mascot Challenge aims to involve the public in creating a zero gravity indicator, a crucial item that will accompany astronauts aboard the Orion spacecraft during the Artemis II mission. A zero gravity indicator is a small, plush object that visually signals when the crew reaches space. It adds a touch of home and comfort to the otherwise technical journey of space travel.

Participants will have the unique opportunity to collaborate with an artist in real-time during the Twtich event. Viewers can provide suggestions and feedback as the artist brings their ideas to life on screen. While the example design created during the stream won’t be eligible for the competition, it serves as a fantastic learning tool, showcasing how individuals can brainstorm their own designs. Once the livestream concludes, this example will be shared on NASA’s @NASAArtemis social media accounts.

The Artemis II Crew

The upcoming Artemis II mission marks a significant milestone as it will be NASA's first crewed mission under its Artemis program. The crew includes accomplished Astronauts such as Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, alongside Jeremy Hansen from the Canadian Space Agency. They will embark on a 10-day journey around the Moon, paving the way for future lunar and Martian expeditions.

Livestream Details

The event will commence at 3 p.m. EDT and can be accessed via NASA's official Twitch channel NASA on Twitch. The Moon Mascot Challenge encourages participants to submit their designs, and a selection of up to 25 finalists will be chosen for consideration. Notably, a division for K-12 students is also included, ensuring that young aspiring creators have a chance to express their ideas. The Artemis II crew will ultimately select one winning design, which will then be fabricated by NASA's Thermal Blanket Lab for inclusion aboard the spacecraft.

Conclusion

This live event exemplifies how NASA continues to engage with the public, fostering creativity and collaboration in the realm of space exploration. As Artemis II gears up, this Moon Mascot Challenge presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for space enthusiasts and aspiring designers alike. Join the conversation, share your ideas, and be part of history as NASA reaches for the stars!