The office of stem engagement (ostem) seeks to: 1. Attract students to stem through unique learning opportunities that spark interest and provide connections to NASA s mission and work 2. Engage…

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration Shared Services Center awarded New Mexico State University a $700,000 cooperative agreement on January 12, 2026, under the Office of STEM Engagement program (CFDA 43.008) to attract and engage students in authentic STEM learning experiences connected to NASA's mission and work.

The award, designated Cooperative Agreement 80NSSC25M0047, runs through January 11, 2029, with performance based in Las Cruces, New Mexico. New Mexico State University's Research Administration Services division, operating as NM State Esports, serves as the recipient.

The funding supports two principal sub-recipient research efforts. The University of New Mexico (sub-award 80NSSC25M0047-Q02825, obligated April 24, 2026) will conduct computational studies of thermal and mechanical performance in fluid-filled porous composites, with parametric analyses of thermal conduction, thermal expansion, mechanical deformation, damage, and impact loading. Deliverables include simulation model development, model validation, thermal transport and structural integrity optimization, and system integration modeling, along with at least one major conference presentation annually, one peer-reviewed journal publication annually, and student thesis work. The New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology (sub-award 80NSSC25M0047-Q02861, obligated April 2, 2026) will develop and test biomimetic fluid-filled composite panels under the AQUASHIELD project through three technical thrusts: 3D-printing bio-inspired porous structures with capillary networks, optimizing zero-gravity fluid transport using magnetic levitation and NASA Glenn drop tower testing, and integrating shear-thickening fluids with self-healing polymers for micrometeoroid and orbital debris protection.

The office of stem engagement (ostem) seeks to: 1. Attract students to stem through unique learning opportunities that spark interest and provide connections to NASA s mission and work 2. Engage students in authentic learning experiences with NASA s