Did you know that NASA wants everyone to be a part of its scientific journey? It’s not just for astronauts or scientists—it’s for you, me, and every curious mind out there. But here’s where it gets exciting: NASA’s Science Mission Directorate (SMD) Science Activation Program is breaking barriers by inviting people of all ages, backgrounds, and locations to dive into science through hands-on activities and resources. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about learning; it’s about doing science with NASA’s cutting-edge assets, from expert insights to real mission data.
The F.6 Science Activation (SciAct) element of ROSES-25 is a game-changer. It’s calling for projects that span the entire spectrum of NASA’s science disciplines, from astrophysics to Earth science, and ensures these initiatives reach every corner of the U.S., including all 50 states and territories. Whether you’re a student in a classroom, a family at a museum, or a community group, there’s something here for you. The program cleverly balances two goals: first, sharing NASA’s vast resources widely to inspire and educate, and second, tailoring projects to meet specific community needs, whether they’re geographic or interest-based. Think of it as NASA’s way of saying, ‘We’ve got the tools—let’s solve problems together!’
But here’s where it gets controversial: How do we ensure these projects truly reach underserved communities or those with limited access to STEM resources? Is it enough to just share NASA’s assets, or should there be a stronger focus on localized, community-driven initiatives? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is a conversation worth having.
For those diving into the details, minor corrections have been made to Section 3.3.1 and Table F.6-3 of ROSES-25 F.6 SciAct. The changes are easy to spot: new text is in bold, and deleted text is struck through. Importantly, the deadlines remain the same: Notices of intent are due by January 26, 2026, and full proposals by March 31, 2026. To help you navigate, the Preproposal Webinar Slides and a SciAct FAQ have been posted on the NSPIRES page—a treasure trove of information for anyone looking to get involved.
Questions? Reach out to Lin Chambers at lin.h.chambers@nasa.gov. And remember, this isn’t just about NASA’s missions—it’s about your mission to explore, learn, and contribute. So, what are you waiting for? The universe is calling!
