"NASA explores the universe" educational program at , a hands-on informal science/technology education center in , will develop "NASA explores the universe," a comprehensive educational program, which…

"NASA explores the universe" educational program at , a hands-on informal science/technology education center in , will develop "NASA explores the universe," a comprehensive educational program, which includes a new exhibit that will serve as a teaching tool. The proposed program fits within NASA's educational strategic framework by inspiring learners of all ages to seek out greater engagement through educational programming which is aligned with , thereby helping make connections between informal and formal science education. The program will achieve NASA's education strategic coordination framework outcome 3, to promote stem literacy and awareness of NASA's mission, through a sustainable, long-term program. "NASA explores the universe" educational programs will include: (a) "making the grade" field trips; (b) "making a difference" table-top demonstrations developed in conjunction with university teacher credentialing programs; (c) "science to go" outreach programs delivered in classrooms throughout ; (d) free educators' workshops; and (e) speakers from JPL. These programs are successful ongoing programs that will be adapted to use the inspirational content of the "NASA explores the universe" exhibit to engage learners in deeper comprehension of science, technology, engineering and math (stem) concepts. The exhibit will feature current and future NASA missions, with a model of the mission's spacecraft/exploration vehicle, and interactive displays of mission science, technology, and discoveries. While the exhibit will become a permanent exhibit, IT will be designed to be flexible to allow its content to be refreshed annually or more frequently as opportunities present. Was built in , not only for its central location, but also for its accessibility by low-income, minority patrons. Surveys reveal that over 45% of visitors are racial/ethnic minorities - significantly higher than the national average for science centers of just 23'VO. In the most recently completed fiscal year, served close to 439,000 visitors, plus more than 139,000 students in classrooms throughout . Is uniquely qualified to achieve the proposed objectives. Since receiving a grant to assist with the opening of to the public, we have had a history of collaborating with NASA on several successful projects, including receiving loans of models, videos and robots, and welcoming volunteer scientists and technologists from nearby JPL. Through this relationship, has secured a commitment from JPL who will provide specifications of spacecraft to assist in commissioning new models each year over the next decade. In response to visitor demand, who have identified "space/astronomy" as their highest priority for new exhibits and programs, "NASA explores the universe" is just one exhibit in a larger "space exploration" themed exhibition area. Has also received commitments of funding from the , , and towards other exhibits in this space exhibition area.