The michigan science center will launch a two-year space science initiative for students in rural communities, designed to spark curiosity, build stem identity, and connect learning to the aerospace…

The Institute of Museum and Library Services awarded the Michigan Science Center $1,159,816 on September 1, 2026, under the Museums for America program (CFDA 45.301) to operate a two-year space science initiative for students in rural Michigan communities.

The Michigan Science Center will transport its portable planetarium dome to schools and libraries across Michigan and purchase equipment to enable live-streaming of immersive space science experiences. A consulting astronomer will guide content and curriculum development and participate in live broadcast sessions. The project team will develop hands-on astronomy resources and classroom-based curriculum enabling students to create their own planetarium shows. An external evaluator will conduct formative and summative evaluations. The initiative is designed to spark curiosity, build STEM identity, and connect learning to aerospace industry careers, building on a previous IMLS award to the center. The project targets at least 2,000 Michigan students.

Work is performed in Detroit, Michigan, from September 1, 2026, through August 31, 2028.

The michigan science center will launch a two-year space science initiative for students in rural communities, designed to spark curiosity, build stem identity, and connect learning to the aerospace industry. Building on a previous imls award, the museum will transport its portable planetarium dome to schools and libraries across the state and purchase additional equipment to support live-streaming capabilities, presenting immersive, youth-driven space science experiences. A consulting astronomer will guide content and curriculum development and participate in live broadcast sessions to reach more rural students. The project team will develop hands-on astronomy resources and a curriculum for teachers that lets their students create their own planetarium shows in the classroom, and an external evaluator will conduct formative and summative evaluations. The project will reach at least 2,000 michigan students, building their stem knowledge and interest in space science careers.