NASA and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service have recently launched a unique program that offers organizations the opportunity to receive seedlings that have ventured into outer space. These extraordinary seedlings originated from tree seeds of five different species that traveled around the moon during NASA’s Artemis I mission in 2022.
Among the tree species included are sycamores, sweetgums, Douglas-firs, loblolly pines, and giant sequoias. Organizations eligible to participate in this remarkable program encompass formal and informal K-12-serving organizations, universities, community organizations, museums and science centers, as well as government organizations.
The primary objective of this initiative is to bring the marvels of space exploration back to Earth and inspire the next generation of explorers. By introducing these extraterrestrial seedlings, NASA and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service aim to ignite curiosity and foster scientific curiosity within young minds.
This isn’t the first time that Moon Trees have been shared with Earth. The first batch of these extraordinary trees was transported to our planet back in 1971, onboard the Apollo 14 mission, by Command Module Pilot Stuart Roosa.
Interested organizations have until Friday, October 16, to submit their proposals online via NASA’s official website. The Moon Trees team, in collaboration with the USDA Forest Service, will carefully review all applications to assess their feasibility for hosting a seedling.
This incredible opportunity combines the wonders of space travel and environmental conservation. By engaging with the Moon Trees program, organizations have the chance to cultivate a piece of extraterrestrial history while also promoting ecological awareness and sustainability.
So don’t miss out on the chance to bring outer space closer to home! Apply now and join the growing trend of organizations inspiring future generations through the power of space exploration and scientific innovation.
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