NASA is looking for submissions for a new Zero Gravity Indicator (ZGI) that will accompany the Artemis II astronauts during their coming trip around the moon. But if you think you need an advanced engineering degree to design the next ZGI, think carefully again -a level of education and an enthusiasm for space -exploration is probably enough to do it.
The Zero -Swartekpacht indicator on board a NASA spacecraft might sound like a complex piece of hardware, but it is generally a lot easier (and nicer) than you might think. On board the 2022 Artemis I launched, for example, the ZGI took the form of a Snoopy Plushie -Pop Dressed in a customized Baby Yoda dolls of Mandalorian. In reality, a so -called ZGI is usually a symbolic token that still celebrates a successful journey that goes beyond the gravity of the earth, but that does not mean that there is not much thought and care that goes into the guest of honor of each mission.
“What is a better way to fly a mission around the moon than to invite the audience in NASA’s Orion spacecraft with us and to ask for help when designing our zero -gravity indicator?” Reid Wiseman, NASA Astronaut and Artemis II Commander, said in a statement. “The indicator will float next to Victor [Glover]Christina [Koch]Jeremy [Hansen]And I go around the other side of the moon and remind us of all of you on earth. ‘
According to the Official application portalThe winning zero -sorrow indicator must meet certain requirements to be eligible for inclusion on board Artemis II. Since the orion cargo space is a premium, the ZGI must be small enough to fit in a box of 6 square inches and weigh no more than 0.75 LBS. Applicants do not have to calculate the exact dimensions and mass of their entry, but they must ensure that their idea can fit within those parameters. The design must be suitable for safety standards in Orion, especially because they relate to flame and temperature resistance (think of faux fur, polyester fiber optic and materials such as Kevlar, VDA film and beta -cloth).
Unlike that, however, heaven is the limit for entries. NASA notes that the winning ZGI will be one that is original, “relevant to a global audience”, as well as “meaningful for the Artemis II mission and astronauts.” The challenge includes categories that are specifically designated for primary and secondary school classes, but every team leader must be at least 18 years old. Multiple winners receive $ 1,225 prizes, but NASA will only select one to include on the Artemis II mission that is currently planned for launching no earlier than April 2026.
Submissions can be sent Via this portal and are owed before 5 p.m. est on 27 May. Finalists are announced on or before July 31.
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