Transforming Teachers into NASA Astronauts

April 22, 2003

Students and the public are encouraged to help NASA recruit teachers who can create out-of-this-world ways to educate students. NASA's Educator Astronaut Program is looking for individuals with specific experience in K through 12 education to become astronauts. The deadline for students or others to nominate a teacher is April 30, 2003.

Educators with backgrounds in science, technology, engineering or mathematics have the chance to join NASA's first class of Educator Astronauts. Selected individuals will perform all the jobs and responsibilities of Mission Specialist Astronauts, such as spacewalks, operating the Space Shuttle's robotic arm and leading research experiments. Educator Astronauts will share their extraordinary experiences with millions of students and teachers around the nation.

The Educator Astronaut Program has received 7,851 nominations since its announcement in January.

To apply for the program or nominate a teacher on the Internet, visit http://edspace.nasa.gov or call the toll free number at 1-877-332-7876.

A one-minute Educator Astronaut recruitment video featuring astronaut Barbara Morgan is available at http://www.jpl.nasa.gov/video/educator-astronaut.cfm. NASA Television is also airing the video April 22 through May 1.

JPL/Carolina Martinez (818) 354-9382

2003-059