NASA Education Express Message -- March 17, 2016

Check out the following NASA opportunities for the education community. Full descriptions are listed below._________________________________________________________________________________

New This Week!
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Free NASA Educator Professional Development WebinarsAudience: In-service, Pre-service, Home School and Informal Educators
Next Event Date: March 17, 2016, at 6:30 p.m. EDT

We the Explorers: Send Your Artwork to an AsteroidAudience: All Educators and Students
Submission Deadline: March 20, 2016

GLOBE El Niño Field Campaign and Webinar Series Audience: K-12 Educators
Next Webinar Date: March 22, 2016, at 8 p.m. EDT

NASA's Digital Learning Network Event -- Live Video Chat: NASA STARS en EspañolAudience: All Educators and Students
Event Date: March 29, 2016, 1-2 p.m. EDT

NASA's Digital Learning Network Event -- Video conferencia en vivo: NASA STARS en EspañolAudiencia: Todos Los Educadores y Estudiantes
Fecha del Evento: Marzo 29, 2016, 1-2 p.m. EDT

Astrobiology Graduate Conference 2016Audience: Astrobiology Graduate Students
Application Deadline: April 1, 2016
Conference Dates: July 24-27, 2016

NASA TechPort Request for InformationAudience: Higher Education Educators and Students
Feedback Deadline: April 14, 2016

2017 eXploration Habitat (X-Hab) Academic Innovation ChallengeAudience: Higher Education Faculty and Students
Proposal Deadline: April 29, 2016

National Science Foundation's Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers
Audience: Organizations Interested in Implementing Pre-K-12 STEM Education Programs
Full Proposal Deadline: Aug. 10, 2016

National Science Foundation's Advancing Informal STEM Learning Program
Audience: Organizations Interested in Advancing STEM Learning in Informal Environments
Full Proposal Deadline: Nov. 8, 2016

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PREVIOUSLY PROMOTED OPPORTUNITIES…
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STEM@NASA Goddard: Women's History MonthAudience: All Educators and Students
Next Event Date: March 17, 2016, at 1 p.m. EST

New NASA Women of STEM WebsiteAudience: All Educators and Students
Call for Proposals -- NASA Research Announcement for Use of the NASA Physical Sciences Informatics System: Appendix B
Audience: Graduate Students
Proposal Deadline: March 17, 2016

'The Impact of Discovery' Engagement Workshops
Audience: K-12, Informal Educators, and the General Public
Registration Deadline: March 18, 2016
Event Date: April 9, 2016

2016 MAVEN Elementary Teachers' SummitAudience: Elementary Educators
Application Deadline: March 18, 2016
Workshop Dates: June 14-17, 2016
Smithsonian TechQuest: Astronaut Academy
Audience: Designed for Families With Children Ages 10 to 14, but Open to All
Next Event Date: March 19, 2016, 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. EST

2016 NASA STEM Enhancement in Earth and Space Science InternshipAudience: Current High School Sophomores and Juniors
Application Deadline: March 20, 2016

Space Shuttle Thermal Protective Tiles and Blankets Available for Educational UseAudience: Educational Institutions, Museums and Other Education Organizations

2016 von Kármán Lecture Series -- Attend in Person or View OnlineAudience: All Educators and 9-Higher Education Students
Next Lecture Date: March 24, 2016, at 7 p.m. PDT (10 p.m. EDT)

NASA/Applied Physics Laboratory Summer Internship 2016Audience: Undergraduate and Graduate Students
Application Deadline: March 25, 2016

Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum Presents "STEM in 30" Webcast SeriesAudience: Grades 6-8 Educators and Students
Next Webcast Date: March 30, 2016, at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. EDT

International FameLab Competition: San Juan Regional Event
Audience: Graduate Students, Postdoctoral Fellows and Early Career Researchers
Event Date: March 30-April 1, 2016

International Space Station Research Design Challenge: Capillary Effects on Liquids ExploratoryResearch ExperimentsAudience: Grade 8-12 Educators and Students
Entry Deadline: April 1, 2016

2016 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science TeachingAudience: All Educators and Students
Nomination Deadline: April 1, 2016

Earth Observatory's Tournament Earth 2016Audience: All Educators and Students
Competition Dates: Through April 4, 2016

Early Career Fellowships for Planetary Science Researchers
Audience: Higher Education Students
Proposal Deadline: Various Dates Depending on Specific Program

NASA/NSTA Webinar -- Global Precipitation Measurement Mission: WatershedsAudience: K-12 Educators
Event Date: April 13, 2016, 6:30 p.m. EDT

DEADLINE EXTENDED: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office's National Summer Teacher Institute on Innovation, STEM, and Intellectual Property
Audience: K-12 Educators
Application Deadline: April 18, 2016
Event Date: July 17-22, 2016

Mars Survival Kit: Lessons and Activities to Guide Your Exploration of Mars!Audience: K-12 Educators

Call for Submissions -- NASA Announcement for High Impact / Broad Implementation STEM Education Partnerships (EDUCATION01SP16)
Audience: Education Institutions and Organizations
Applications Accepted on a Rolling Basis Through Dec. 31, 2017

'ISS: Science on Orbit' Exhibit at U.S. Space & Rocket Center
Audience: All Educators and Students

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Don't miss out on upcoming NASA education opportunities.
For a full list of events, opportunities and more, visit the Educator and Student Current Opportunity pages on NASA's website:
-- Educators http://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/current-opps-index.html
-- Students http://www.nasa.gov/audience/forstudents/current-opps-index.html

Are you looking for NASA educational materials to support your STEM curriculum? Search hundreds of resources by subject, grade level, type and keyword at http://www.nasa.gov/education/resources/.
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NEW THIS WEEK!
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Free Education Webinars From NASA Educator Professional Development
The NASA STEM Educator Professional Development Collaborative at Texas State University is presenting a series of free webinars open to all educators. Join NASA education specialists to learn about activities, lesson plans, educator guides and resources that bring NASA into your classroom. Registration is required to participate. To register, simply click on the link provided beneath the webinar description.

Light but Strong: A Lesson in Engineering
Audience: Pre-service, In-service, Home School and Informal Educators of Grades K-5
Event Date: March 17, 2016, at 6:30 p.m. EDT
Discover what it's like to be a NASA materials engineer! In this session, participants will learn about the engineering design process, then design and build a mobile launcher platform. The activity presented in this webinar aligns with Next Generation Science Standards. Register online to participate.https://www.etouches.com/164249

Making Waves With NASA: Optics Resources
Audience: Pre-service, In-service, Home School and Informal Educators of Grades 4-12
Event Date: March 22, 2016, at 6:30 p.m. EDT
Participants will get an overview of the NASA resources for teaching about waves, lenses and mirrors. This webinar addresses the Next Generation Science Standard PS4. Register online to participate.https://www.etouches.com/155803

Technology Drives Exploration: Using Images and Data in the Classroom 
Audience: Pre-service, In-service, Home School and Informal Educators of Grades 4-10
Event Date: March 23, 2016, at 6 p.m. EDT
Explore NASA resources developed to introduce teaching strategies using images and data. These resources may be used to illustrate a concept, to engage students, and to develop an educational exhibit, program or product. Learn about the latest science discoveries and more. Register online to participate.https://www.etouches.com/168109

Technology Drives Exploration: Pluto -- Exploring a New World in Your Classroom
Audience: Pre-service, In-service, Home School and Informal Educators of Grades 4-8
Event Date: March 24, 2016, at 6 p.m. EDT
Pluto has fascinated humans since it was first discovered. What is Pluto? How is Pluto both different from and like other objects in our solar system? These are some of the questions to be investigated by New Horizons, NASA's first robotic mission to Pluto. This webinar will discuss these questions by exploring NASA STEM education content, online resources, the Next Generation Science Standards and data from the New Horizons mission. Join this webinar to learn exciting ways to bring the fascination and mystery of Pluto into your classroom. Register online to participate. https://www.etouches.com/168028

For a full schedule of upcoming webinars, visit http://www.txstate-epdc.net/events/.

Please direct questions about this series of webinars to Steve Culivan at stephen.p.culivan@nasa.gov.

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We the Explorers: Send Your Artwork to an Asteroid
Set to launch in September 2016, OSIRIS-REx will be the first U.S. mission to return samples from an asteroid to Earth. As the OSIRIS-REx team prepares for launch, it invites the public to ponder what it means to be an explorer and what this mission might teach us about ourselves and our universe.

Participants are asked to share their reflections in a creative work that will ride aboard the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft on its journey to the asteroid Bennu!

This opportunity is open to all ages and skill levels. Submissions will be collected via social media and may take the form of a sketch, photograph, graphic, poem, song, short video, or other creative or artistic expression.

The deadline for submissions is March 20, 2016, or when capacity of the drive carrying the submissions to space is reached, whichever occurs first.
For more information, visit http://www.asteroidmission.org/WeTheExplorers/.

To learn more about the OSIRIS-REx mission, visit http://www.asteroidmission.org/mission/.

Questions about this opportunity should be directed to http://www.asteroidmission.org/contact/.

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GLOBE El Niño Field Campaign and Webinar Series 
El Niño and La Niña are important phenomena that can impact the climate by causing global flooding and droughts as well as changes in seasonal weather. These interactions around the world are called teleconnections. Because of the importance of this issue, a GLOBE ENSO (El Niño Southern Oscillation) Campaign has been formulated to engage students in determining where and how much El Niño affects local places and to put students in contact with their local environment.

To learn more about the campaign and how to participate, visit http://www.globe.gov/web/el-nino/el-nino-campaign. 

To help educators prepare for the El Niño Campaign, GLOBE is hosting a series of free education webinars to discuss the mechanics of the campaign, give updates on data collection, and give participants the opportunity to learn science content from experts.

The hourlong webinars will take place on the following dates at 8 p.m. EDT.

March 22, 2016: Maximum/Minimum Air Temperature and Precipitation
April 6, 2016: Surface Temperature and Soil Temperature
April 20, 2016: SMAP Soil Moisture
May 3, 2016: Biometry and Ground Cover
May 17, 2016: The 2015-2016 El Niño Event
June 13, 2016: Using El Niño GLOBE Data for Scientific Research
Sept. 19, 2016: El Niño Student Campaign Refresher and Update

For more information, including log-in instructions for the webinars and recordings of previous webinars in the series, visit http://www.globe.gov/web/el-nino/el-nino-campaign/webinars.

Please direct questions about this opportunity and series of webinars to http://www.globe.gov/support/contact.

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NASA's Digital Learning Network Event -- Live Video Chat: NASA STARS en Español
Do you want to be one of NASA’s STARS? In this series of live, Spanish video chats, "Students Talk About Real STEM" (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) with NASA professionals who work in these areas. Join NASA’s Digital Learning Network and Educator Professional Development Collaborative for an inside look at NASA missions, research and careers. Submit questions via Twitter using #NASASTARS or via email to astrosdeNASA@gmail.com.

Sign up to connect your class directly and participate in a live event. Please direct questions about this event to astrosdeNASA@gmail.com.

The next hourlong event will be webcast on the NASA DLiNfo Channel on March 29, 2016, at 1 p.m. EDT.

For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/dln.

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NASA's Digital Learning Network Event -- Video conferencia en vivo: NASA STARS en Español
¿Quieres ser uno de los Astros de NASA? En esta serie de video conferencia en Español y en vivo, los estudiantes hablarán de lo que es en realidad STEM (ciencias, tecnología, ingeniería y matemáticas) con profesionales de NASA que están trabajando en estas ramas. Acompaña a los programas  de conexión digital de NASA (DLN for sus siglas en Ingles) y el programa de colaboraciones de desarrolló profesional educativo (EPDC por sus siglas en Ingles) hablando de diferentes misiones, investigaciones, y carreras en NASA. Inscribe tu escuela y conectate ó envia tus preguntas por medio de Twitter usando #NASASTARS ó correo electrónico astrosdeNASA@gmail.com.

Escribanos si usted esta interesado en conectarse directo para participar y cualquier pregunta sobre el programa astrosdeNASA@gmail.com.

El siguiente programa de una hora será transmitido por NASA DLiNfo Channel el 29 de Marzo de 2016 a la 1 p.m. EDT.
Para más información visite la página http://www.nasa.gov/dln.

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Astrobiology Graduate Conference 2016
The next Astrobiology Graduate Conference, AbGradCon 2016, will be held at the University of Colorado in Boulder on July 24-27, 2016. This conference is run by graduate students for other graduate students and early career scientists with the purpose of having conference attendees share their astrobiology-related research, collaborate with their peers, and make new professional connections in a low-pressure setting.

Conference attendees share their research by presenting a 15-minute talk or presenting a poster (though talks are preferred). Topics to be covered include astrochemistry, exoplanet research, planetary science, geobiology, computer science, origins of life research, and aerospace engineering. The conference culminates with a field trip to a site relevant to astrobiology. This year's conference attendees will visit Dinosaur Ridge in Morrison, Colorado. A Public Speaking Workshop will be held as an alternative for those who do not want to participate in the field trip.

Attendees also have the option of joining, separate from the conference, the Research Focus Group workshop that will take place July 22-24 in Estes Park, Colorado. The RFG is a proposal-writing workshop targeted at developing better fundable proposals for research.

Food and lodging for conference attendees will be covered by the conference. We also expect to be able to cover most travel costs for attendees.

Applications are due April 1, 2016.

For more information, visit http://astrobiology.nasa.gov/careers-employment/abgradcon-2016/.

Please direct questions about this opportunity to abgradcon@gmail.com.

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NASA TechPort Request for Information
NASA is conducting this Request for Information, or RFI, to better understand user needs and identify potential improvements for the NASA Technology Portfolio System (TechPort).

NASA developed TechPort as an agencywide tool to capture detailed information on technology investments that support missions across aeronautics, space exploration and scientific discovery. NASA has used TechPort internally since 2012. Through continuous updates, the system now contains information on more than 840 active projects and more than 7,600 historical records. In February 2015, NASA opened a beta version of TechPort to the public.

To help enhance the TechPort system, NASA is seeking feedback via a short, 18-question survey that takes an estimated 5 to 10 minutes to complete. Feedback may be submitted through April 14, 2016.

To provide feedback, visit https://techport.nasa.gov/rfi.

To visit the NASA TechPort, visit http://techport.nasa.gov/home.

Please direct questions about NASA TechPort and this RFI to hq-techport@mail.nasa.gov.

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2017 eXploration Habitat (X-Hab) Academic Innovation Challenge
NASA is seeking university teams to develop innovative design solutions for deep space human exploration systems in the 2017 eXploration Systems and Habitation Academic Innovation Challenge. This year, the X-Hab Challenge scope is being formally extended not only to include habitation topics but other areas of exploration systems as well. Topic areas include in-space recycling/reclamation, quantification of condensed water on the lunar surface, a wastewater to plant nutrient solution, a microgravity plant-watering system and a microgravity food production system.

The winners of the challenge will receive between $10,000 and $30,000 to design and produce functional products of interest to NASA human spaceflight. Proposals are due April 29, 2016, and awardees will follow a tailored systems-engineering process with the completion of the projects in the May 2017 timeframe.

Proposals will be accepted from university faculty who are U.S. citizens and who teach at an accredited university in the U.S. Eligible educators must be teaching a senior or graduate engineering design, industrial design or architecture curriculum that is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Tribal Colleges and other minority-serving educational institutions are particularly encouraged to apply. Proposals from women, members of underrepresented minority groups and persons with disabilities also are highly encouraged.

For more information about the challenge and how to submit a proposal, visit http://spacegrant.org/xhab/.

Please email questions about the X-Hab Challenge to xhab@spacegrant.org.

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National Science Foundation's Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers

The National Science Foundation is accepting proposals for the Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers, or ITEST, program. This program supports the development, implementation and selective spread of innovative strategies for engaging students in experiences that do the following:

 -- Increase student awareness of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and ICT (information and communications technology) careers
 -- Motivate students to pursue the education necessary to participate in those careers
 -- And/or provide students with technology-rich experiences that develop their knowledge of related content and skills (including critical thinking skills) needed for entering the STEM workforce.

ITEST projects must involve students but may also include teachers. The ITEST program is especially focused on broadening participation of students from traditionally underrepresented groups in STEM fields and related education and workforce domains. ITEST strongly encourages projects that actively engage business and industry partners. The resulting relationships better ensure that the students’ experiences foster the knowledge and skill sets needed for emerging STEM-related occupations.

Proposals are due Aug. 10, 2016.
For additional information about the program, including anticipated awards, visithttp://www.nsf.gov/pubs/2015/nsf15599/nsf15599.htm.
Please direct questions about this opportunity to DRLITEST@NSF.gov. 

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National Science Foundation's Advancing Informal STEM Learning Program

The National Science Foundation is accepting proposals for the Advancing Informal STEM Learning, or AISL, program. This program seeks to advance new approaches to evidence-based understanding of the design and development of STEM learning opportunities for the public in informal environments; to provide multiple pathways for broadening access to and engagement in STEM learning experiences; and to advance innovative research on and assessment of STEM learning in informal environments.

Proposals are due Nov. 8, 2016. 
For additional information about the program, including anticipated awards, visithttp://www.nsf.gov/pubs/2015/nsf15593/nsf15593.htm.
Please direct questions about this opportunity to DRLAISL@NSF.gov.

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PREVIOUSLY PROMOTED OPPORTUNITIES…
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STEM@NASA Goddard: Women's History Month
Join NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in March for “STEM@NASA Goddard: Women’s History Month”! On select Tuesdays and Thursdays at 1 p.m. EST (March 17, 22, 24, 29 and 31), the Goddard Office of Education will celebrate Women’s History Month by highlighting women in STEM. Women from across Goddard will share how they practice science, technology, engineering and mathematics -- through their research, missions, career and the like -- with participating schools and other groups.

The 30-minute programs will be streamed live on UStream, and participants will be able to interact with the guest speakers by submitting questions through email and Twitter.

To view the programs on Ustream, visit http://www.ustream.tv/channel/nasa-gsfc.

For more information or to express interest in participating, please contact Erin McKinley aterin.e.mckinley@nasa.gov.

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New NASA Women of STEM Website
Celebrate Women's History Month with the new NASA Women of STEM website!

Through their accomplishments and dedication to their jobs, women at NASA embody the essence of Women’s History Month. They serve as role models to young women in their pursuit of careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Read career profiles, watch videos and more! Visit the new website at http://www.nasa.gov/education/womenstem.

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Call for Proposals -- NASA Research Announcement for Use of the NASA Physical Sciences Informatics System: Appendix B
NASA is seeking ground-based research proposals from graduate students to use NASA's Physical Sciences Informatics system to develop new analyses and scientific insights. The PSI system is designed to be a resource for researchers to data mine information generated from completed physical sciences experiments performed on the International Space Station or from related ground-based studies.

This solicitation appendix focuses on the following five research areas: combustion science, complex fluids, fluid physics, fundamental physics and materials science.

For graduate students (students working toward an advanced degree), this NASA Research Announcement is soliciting proposals that advance fundamental research in one of the physical sciences disciplines identified above and also assist in the awarding of an advanced degree to the graduate student. This call is open to students who meet the following eligibility requirements:

-- The student is pursuing an advanced degree directly related to a physical sciences discipline -- only technical degrees are permitted (not degrees in policy or management).
-- The student is a U.S. citizen, a permanent resident alien of the U.S., or on a student visa at an accredited U.S. university at the time of application submission.
-- The student is enrolled in a master’s or doctoral degree program at an accredited U.S. university at the time of application submission, or, if the student is an undergraduate starting their graduate studies, he or she has been accepted to a master’s or doctoral degree program at an accredited U.S. university at the time of application submission and will start during the next academic year.
-- The student has an academic graduate advisor who will submit the application for the graduate student. The student must perform the proposed research under the guidance of the assigned graduate advisor.

The agency expects to make approximately 10-15 awards in spring 2016. Research and development efforts will take place over two years. The typical award will be $75,000-$100,000 per year, for up to two years.

The deadline for submitting proposals is March 17, 2016.

For information concerning this NASA Research Announcement solicitation, visit http://tinyurl.com/NASA-15PSI-B.

For more information about the Physical Science Informatics System, visit http://psi.nasa.gov .

Please direct questions about this NASA Research Announcement to Dr. Francis Chiaramonte atfrancis.p.chiaramonte@nasa.gov.

Additional technical information about the Physical Science Informatics System for this NASA Research Announcement is available from the contact below:

Name: Teresa Miller
Title: Physical Sciences Informatics System – Technical POC
NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center
Email: teresa.y.miller@nasa.gov
Phone: 256-544-7815

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'The Impact of Discovery' Engagement Workshops
STEM+Arts = STEAM! Explore how the arts can enhance learner understanding of science, technology, engineering and mathematics concepts.

This annual workshop presented by NASA's Discovery and New Frontiers programs is designed for individuals who want to connect with NASA and discover STEAM opportunities to share inside and outside the classroom, in settings including libraries, museums, science centers and out-of-school-time programs. Investigate how scientists and engineers work together to move fantastic ideas from dream to reality to meet the challenges of complex space missions. Learn the latest on current missions and make your own “shoebox rover.”

The Impact of Discovery workshop will take place on April 9, 2016, in four locations.
            -- NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, California
            -- NASA's Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas
            -- Think 360 Arts for Learning, Denver, Colorado
            -- Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, Laurel, Maryland

All sites offer hands-on activities and multimedia resources to take home. The cost of the workshop is $25. Lunch and snacks will be provided. Registration closes on March 18, 2016.

Can't make it to one of our workshop sites? Watch the special speaker presentations over the Internet through our free webinar. Check the website for details.
For more information, visit http://dawn.jpl.nasa.gov/discovery/impact_of_discovery.asp.

Please email any questions about the Impact of Discovery workshops to Laura Arndt at LArndt@mcrel.org.

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2016 MAVEN Elementary Teachers' Summit

The Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution mission began orbiting Mars on Sept. 21, 2014. MAVEN is exploring the planet′s upper atmosphere, ionosphere and interactions with the solar wind. The mission is providing invaluable insight into the history of Mars′ atmosphere, climate, liquid water and planetary habitability.

Join the MAVEN education team for a four-day workshop in Boulder, Colorado. This professional development for elementary educators is a great opportunity to explore hands-on activities and blended science/literacy lessons.

The workshop will take place June 14-17, 2016. Participants will receive free dorm housing, a $150 stipend, continental breakfast and lunch, and a certificate of completion. Travel expenses are not covered.

Applications are due March 18, 2016. Space is limited, so interested educators are encouraged to apply early.

For more information about the workshop and to apply online, visit http://lasp.colorado.edu/home/maven/education-outreach/for-educators/summit/. 

Please email any questions about this opportunity to epomail@lasp.colorado.edu.

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Smithsonian TechQuest: Astronaut Academy

Smithsonian TechQuest: Astronaut Academy, at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia, is a free alternate-reality game that will challenge you to become an astronaut-in-training for a future trip to Mars. Choose what role you will play on the mission; engage in fun interactive activities; and explore the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics skills you will need as a next-generation space traveler. Along the way, you'll learn about some of the museum's fascinating artifacts.

Instructions and guidance are given via a special webpage accessed on your mobile device. Players should bring their own phones or devices equipped with an internet browser and a camera. Having a digital picture-taking device (smartphone, tablet, camera) is highly recommended but not required.

The game is aimed at upper elementary and middle school visitors and their families. Do you want to bring a group? Reservations are required for groups larger than 15.

The next offering of the Astronaut Academy is on March 19, 2016. Begin your training with Astronaut Orientation in the Claude Moore Education Center Classroom 1 located on the first level across from the restrooms. Astronaut Orientation is offered at regular intervals between 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. The last opportunity to start the game is at 2:30 p.m. A self-guided activity, the game should take between 60 and 90 minutes, and staff will help you along the way.
For more information, including a full list of upcoming Astronaut Academy dates, visithttp://airandspace.si.edu/events/techquest/.

Please direct questions about the Smithsonian TechQuest: Astronaut Academy to the visitor service line at 202-633-2214.

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2016 NASA STEM Enhancement in Earth and Space Science Internship
STEM Enhancement in Earth and Space Science, or SEES, is a nationally competitive summer intern program for students in grades 10 and 11. NASA, the Texas Space Grant Consortium and The University of Texas at Austin Center for Space Research, or UT/CSR, have joined forces to provide this opportunity for high school students to increase their understanding of and interest in STEM careers.

Scientists and engineers at UT/CSR are conducting NASA-supported research in astronomy, remote sensing and space geodetic techniques to help understand Earth systems, natural hazards and climate science. The SEES project provides selected students with exposure to Earth and space research. Participants will learn how to interpret NASA satellite data while working with scientists and engineers in their chosen area of work.

The summer 2016 internship allows students to work remotely from July 1-15 and on-site in Austin, Texas, July 17-29. Housing, transportation and meals will be provided. Students are selected on the basis of their academic records, written application that includes essay questions, and interest in STEM.

Applications are due March 20, 2016.
For more information, visit http://www.csr.utexas.edu/internship/.
Please email any questions about this opportunity to Margaret Baguio at baguio@csr.utexas.edu.

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Space Shuttle Thermal Protective Tiles and Blankets Available for Educational Use
NASA invites eligible U.S. educational institutions and museums to request space shuttle thermal protective tiles, space shuttle thermal protective blankets and other special items offered on a first-come, first-serve basis while quantities last. Organizations previously allocated thermal protective tiles may request an additional three tiles.

There will be a nominal shipping fee that must be paid online with a credit card.  To make a request for special items online, visit http://gsaxcess.gov/htm/nasa/userguide/Special_Item_Request_Procedure.pdf.

Please direct questions about this opportunity to GSAXcessHelp@gsa.gov.

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2016 von Kármán Lecture Series -- Attend in Person or View Online
The Theodore von Kármán Lecture Series, named after the founder of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and presented by JPL's Office of Communication and Education, shares the excitement of the space program's missions, instruments and other technologies.

Lectures take place twice per month, on consecutive Thursdays and Fridays. The Thursday lectures take place in JPL's Theodore von Kármán Auditorium, and Friday lectures take place at Pasadena City College's Vosloh Forum. Both start at 7 p.m. PDT (10 p.m. EDT). Admission and parking are free for all lectures. No reservations are required, but seating is limited. The Thursday evening lectures also are streamed live for viewing online. Archives of past lectures are also available online.

The next lecture in the series is “The Europa Mission.”

What 10 Years at Mars Can Tell Us About the Planet
Event Date: March 24 and March 25, 2016, at 7 pm. PDT (10 p.m. EDT)
http://www.jpl.nasa.gov/events/lectures_archive.php?year=2016&month=3
The Mars Reconnaissance Orbit has been circling the Red Planet for 10 years. During its decade in orbit, MRO has sent back thousands of high-resolution images and more data than all other Mars missions combined. Join MRO scientists Rich Zurek, Ph.D., and Leslie Tamppari, Ph.D., for a discussion of Mars discoveries and what the future of Red Planet research holds.

For more information about the Theodore von Kármán Lecture Series, including a complete list of upcoming lectures, visit http://www.jpl.nasa.gov/events/lectures.php.

Questions about this series should be directed to http://www.jpl.nasa.gov/contact_JPL.php.

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NASA/Applied Physics Laboratory Summer Internship 2016
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, or APL, is offering summer projects for students interested in working on NASA missions or space-related research opportunities.

Students participating in the 2016 NASA/APL Internship Program will work at the APL facility in Laurel, Maryland. Students will receive a stipend for the 10-week program, and housing will be provided.

Eligible students include undergraduate rising sophomores through Ph.D. students as of fall 2016. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and have a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Applications are due March 25, 2016.

For more information about the internship and to apply online, visit https://portals.jhuapl.edu/aplnasaintern/Home.aspx.

Questions about the NASA/APL Internships Program should be emailed to aplnasaintern-web@jhuapl.edu.
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Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum Presents "STEM in 30" Webcast Series
The Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum is presenting a series of free education webcast events called "STEM in 30." This new program consists of live, fast-paced 30-minute webcasts designed to increase interest and engagement in science, technology, engineering and mathematics for students. To enhance the learning experience, students can get involved with the content through the interactive "Cover It Live" feature, which includes poll questions and classroom activities. The webcasts will be available live on the National Air and Space Museum website and will be archived for on-demand viewing.
Mars RoversMarch 30, 2016, at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. EDT
Two separate rovers are traversing Mars right this instant. It took many people and thousands of parts (many of them made of titanium) to build these rovers. Explore the construction of the Mars rovers as well as the science that is being done 140 million miles away on the Red Planet.
Moon RocksMay 25, 2016, at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. EDT
Twelve men have walked on the moon. While the rest of us remain Earth-bound, we’re able to learn about the moon from the rocks these 12 astronauts brought back for scientific study. We also have found lunar meteorites here on Earth -- meteorites produced by impacts hitting the moon. Explore moon rocks and what they can tell us not only about the moon but also about our own planet.
Milestones of Flight: Lunar ModuleMay 25, 2016, at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. EDT
To date, only one spacecraft has flown exclusively in space: the Lunar Module. This craft was designed for the sole purpose of getting men to the moon and then back to the Command Service Module orbiting above. Six of these crafts landed on the moon with a seventh being used as a lifeboat for the crew of Apollo 13. This webcast will explore this amazing spacecraft.

"STEM in 30" webcasts are online learning experiences but are filmed in front of a live audience. If you are interested in bringing your school group to a live filming of "STEM in 30," please email STEMin30@si.edu for details. 
For more information about the Smithsonian's "STEM in 30" Webcast Series, visit http://airandspace.si.edu/explore-and-learn/stem-in-30/.

Questions about this series should be directed to the visitor service line at 202-633-2214.

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International FameLab Competition: San Juan Regional Event
NASA, the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Pedras and Arecibo Observatory are hosting an International FameLab regional competition event on March 30-April 1, 2016, in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Are you passionate about science? Do you love to communicate? 

At regional competitions throughout the U.S., early career scientists from numerous disciplines are competing to convey their research and related science concepts. Each contestant has the spotlight for only three minutes. No slides or charts are allowed. Contestants may only use the power of words and any prop that can be held in their hands.

Winners from each regional event will face off in April 2016. Contestants will compete for a grand prize and the opportunity to compete with peers from around the world at the FameLab International Final in the United Kingdom in June 2016.

For more information and to register to take part in the competition, visit http://famelab.arc.nasa.gov/.

Questions about this competition should be emailed to Desireemoi Bridges atdesireemoi.r.bridges@nasa.gov.

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International Space Station Research Design Challenge: Capillary Effects on Liquids ExploratoryResearch Experiments
NASA and Portland State University are seeking participants for the International Space Station Research Design Challenge: Capillary Effects on Liquids Exploratory Research Experiments, or CELERE. This design challenge enables students to participate in microgravity research on capillary action, similar to that conducted on the space station.

Teams or individuals create their own experiment using computer-aided design with a provided template and submit short proposals presenting the experiments. Portland State University then manufactures test cells using the CAD drawings and a computer-controlled laser cutter. Each experiment is conducted in a drop tower. Video of the drop is provided for student analysis and reporting of results.

CELERE is open to individuals and teams in grades 8-12. To facilitate the participation of informal science clubs, Scouts, etc., teams may include younger students as long as at least one team member is in grades 8-12. Teams may be of any size and may include an entire class or science club. The program is limited to students from the U.S., including the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Students at Department of Defense Education Activity schools (www.dodea.edu), including those outside the U.S., are also eligible to participate.

The CELERE design challenge is a relatively new program and, as a result, the odds of selection are quite high. In 2014 and 2015, 100 percent of the entries were selected for full participation, where the student experiments were built and tested in microgravity. In 2016, selection of at least one qualifying entry is guaranteed from each state and listed territory, at least one DODEA school, and at least one Bureau of Indian Education school (http://bie.edu/). Students are strongly encouraged to apply!

Design proposals are now being accepted. Submissions are due April 1, 2016.

For more information about this opportunity, visit http://spaceflightsystems.grc.nasa.gov/CELERE/.

If you have questions about this opportunity, please email your inquiries to the CELERE team atcelere@lists.nasa.gov.

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2016 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching
The National Science Foundation currently is accepting nominations and applications for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching program. PAEMST is the highest recognition that a teacher of K-12 mathematics or science (including computer science) may receive for outstanding teaching in the United States. Since 1983, more than 4,400 teachers have been recognized for their contributions to mathematics and science education. Awardees serve as models for their colleagues, inspiration to their communities, and leaders in the improvement of mathematics and science education. Up to 108 awardees may be recognized each year.

Presidential awardees receive a certificate signed by the President of the United States; a trip for two to Washington, D.C., to attend a series of recognition events and professional development opportunities; and a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation. The National Science Foundation administers PAEMST on the behalf of The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.

The PAEMST program is open to outstanding mathematics and science teachers in the 50 states and the four U.S. jurisdictions (Washington, D.C.; Puerto Rico; Department of Defense education activity schools; and the U.S. territories as a group). Anyone -- principals, teachers, parents, students or members of the public -- may nominate a teacher by completing the nomination form available on the PAEMST website. Teachers also may apply directly. Teachers from groups underrepresented in STEM teaching and learning are encouraged to apply.

Nominations for elementary school teachers (grades K-6) are due April 1, 2016. Secondary school teachers (grades 7-12) are eligible to apply in 2017.

For more information, visit http://www.paemst.org/.

Please email any questions about this opportunity to info@paemst.org.

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Earth Observatory's Tournament Earth 2016
Thirty-two of the best Earth Observatory images will compete in Tournament Earth 4.0, but only one can be the winner! From Feb. 29 through April 4, 2016, visitors to NASA's Earth Observatory website can vote for their favorite images from 2015, whittling them down each week in a tournament of remote-sensing science. The competition is divided into four categories: data, art, event and photograph.

Voting takes place online, and a printable bracket is available to let you pick your favorites and track your selections as the competition progresses.
To get started, visit http://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/TournamentEarth/.

Questions about this opportunity should be directed to Kevin Ward at kevin.a.ward@nasa.gov.

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Early Career Fellowships for Planetary Science Researchers

The Early Career Fellowship program supports the development of individual research programs of outstanding scientists in the early stages of their careers and stimulates research careers in the areas supported by the Planetary Sciences Division. This program is based on the idea that supporting key individuals is a critical mechanism for impacting science with new concepts, technologies and methods.
This program consists of two components with two different submission procedures: The first is the one-page application to be an "Early Career Fellow," and the second is the subsequent submission of a seven-page proposal for startup funds once selected as an ECF. To be eligible to apply, applicants must have received their Ph.D. (or equivalent degree such as a DPhil) within seven calendar years of the year of the submission of the research proposal.

For consideration as a Fellow (new applicants), submit a proposal to the participating program element by the deadline specified in Tables 2 and 3 in the ROSES Summary of Solicitation. Proposals from Fellows selected in prior years for start-up funds may be submitted at any time in response to this program element.

For complete fellowship details and application procedures, visit http://go.nasa.gov/1MkySUk.

Questions concerning this opportunity may be directed to Doris Daou at Doris.Daou@nasa.gov.

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NASA/NSTA Webinar -- Global Precipitation Measurement Mission: Watersheds
Join the National Science Teachers Association for a free interactive webinar to learn about watersheds and NASA's Global Precipitation Measurement, or GPM, mission. The 90-minute session will take place on April 13, 2016, at 6:30 p.m. EDT.

What is a watershed? Why are watersheds important? What are signs of a healthy watershed? Why are some watersheds or water reservoirs losing their water? Topics presented at this webinar will include watershed basics and hands-on investigations students can conduct to monitor their local watershed areas. NASA scientists will give background science information about watersheds and how NASA helps monitor watershed regions.

GPM is an international satellite mission managed by NASA and JAXA (the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) that will provide next-generation observations of rain and snow. The GPM mission will help us learn more about Earth's water and energy cycles, improve the forecasting of extreme events that cause natural disasters, and extend current capabilities of using satellite precipitation information to directly benefit society.

All participants will receive a certificate of participation and 100 Learning Center activity points for attending and completing the post-program evaluation. An archive and presentation slides will be available at the end of the program.
For more information and to register to attend the webinar event, visit http://learningcenter.nsta.org/resource/?id=10.2505/9/WSNASA15_Apr13.

For more information about GPM, visit http://www.nasa.gov/gpm or http://gpm.nasa.gov.

Please email questions about this opportunity to webseminars@nsta.org.

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DEADLINE EXTENDED: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office's National Summer Teacher Institute on Innovation, STEM, and Intellectual Property
The United States Patent and Trademark Office, or USPTO, will host its third annual National Summer Teacher Institute on Innovation, STEM, and Intellectual Property on July 17-22, 2016, at Michigan State University in East Lansing.

This multiday, professional development opportunity will train elementary, middle and high school teachers to incorporate concepts of making, inventing, creating and protecting intellectual property into classroom instruction. Participants are expected to implement lessons learned from the institute into their schools and school districts.

The institute is open to teachers nationwide, so apply to be a part of this exciting cohort! In accordance with the Federal Travel Regulations and USPTO travel policy, travel and lodging expenses will be covered for teachers who are traveling more than 50 miles to the venue. Space is limited.

The deadline for applications has been extended to April 18, 2016.

For more information, visit http://www.uspto.gov/learning-and-resources/outreach-and-education/national-summer-teacher-institute.

Questions about this opportunity should be directed to NSTI_Applications@uspto.gov.

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Mars Survival Kit: Lessons and Activities to Guide Your Exploration of Mars!
NASA is embarking on a journey to Mars! Are your students ready to join in the adventure? Spark excitement in your classroom with the Mars Survival Kit.
The Mars Survival Kit is a collection of educational activities for students in grades K-12. Each educational activity includes a brief description, as well as information about how the activities and lessons align to the Next Generation Science Standards.

Start your classroom's journey to Mars at http://go.nasa.gov/1NnZ0Rg.

To learn more about NASA's Journey to Mars, visit http://www.nasa.gov/topics/journeytomars/index.html.
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Call for Submissions -- NASA Announcement for High Impact / Broad Implementation STEM Education Partnerships (EDUCATION01SP16)

The NASA Headquarters Office of Education, in cooperation with the agency’s four mission directorates, nine center education offices, and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) education office, announces this competition to improve science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education. Responses must be submitted electronically via the NASA data system NSPIRES (http://nspires.nasaprs.com).

NASA Education seeks to partner with eligible domestic or international organizations on a no-exchange-of-funds basis to reach wider and more diverse audiences and to achieve mutually beneficial objectives. The Announcement places a priority on collaboration involving the following: digital learning; engaging underrepresented groups in STEM; NASA-themed STEM challenges; and youth-serving organizations. NASA also is receptive to other creative ideas including, for example, investigations or application of science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics and design (STEAMD); or activities culturally relevant to or focused on unrepresented in STEM careers populations, such as women, ethnic minorities and persons with disabilities. The announcement explains the criteria used to review responses and NASA’s partnership mechanism known as a no-exchange-of-funds or non-reimbursable Space Act Agreement.

NASA will accept responses on a rolling basis through Dec. 31. 2017.

For more information about this opportunity, visit NSPIRES at http://go.nasa.gov/1RZwWCi.

If you have any questions about this opportunity, please direct your questions to the Points of Contact listed within the NASA Announcement.

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'ISS: Science on Orbit' Exhibit at U.S. Space & Rocket Center

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center’s “ISS: Science on Orbit” exhibit provides visitors with a true sense of what it’s like to live and work in space. This NASA grant-funded exhibit begins with a model of NASA’s Payload Operations Integration Center, where scientists and engineers on Earth manage the complex, international science experiments that astronauts conduct on the International Space Station.

Two mockups of space station modules contain 20 full-scale replica racks that illustrate the Environmental Control and Life Support Systems, the astronauts’ food, and a sleeping berth, among other necessary aspects of life and work aboard the station. A connecting node contains a full-scale replica of the Cupola Observation Module, which provides space station crew members with a view of Earth and space.

For more information, visit http://rocketcenter.com/.

Questions about the exhibit can be directed to Dr. Kay Taylor at kay.taylor@spacecamp.com.

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