Science Activation

What is SMD’s Science Activation (SciAct) program? NASA Science has a new team to help learners of all ages “do” science!  For the next four years, a cooperative network of thirty-three competitively-selected teams from across the Nation will work with NASA infrastructure teams to connect NASA science experts, real content, and experiences with community leaders to do science in ways that activate minds and promote deeper understanding of our world and beyond. The program is informed by a 2019 assessment from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine.

Science Activation works synergistically with NASA STEM Engagement and supports MissionSTEM.

We Collaborate

48

active teams

A cooperative network of competitively-selected teams and NASA infrastructure activities across the Nation connects NASA science experts, content, and experiences with communities to activate minds and deepen understanding of our world and beyond.

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We Leverage

525

partnerships

We extend our reach through strategic partnerships with community-based and audience-based organizations to support institutional, state, and local efforts. These partnerships have more than doubled since 2016.

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We Connect

745

scientists involved

NASA and NASA-funded scientists work with Science Activation behind the scenes and directly with learners to share the story, the science, and the adventure of NASA science. The number of scientists involved has increased 50% since 2016.

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We Innovate

110

papers published

Our teams use evidence-based solutions to reach and motivate learners of all ages and document them so that others can benefit. Our work has been cited more than 690 times to date.

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We Engage

52 M

learner interactions

In 2022, Science Activation teams facilitated 52 million learner interactions in the US. This more than doubled engagement over 2021.

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We Reach

52

states & territories

The SciAct program reached learners in all 50 states, DC, and Puerto Rico, and 89 countries in 2021. Explore our network in our Interactive Reach Map.

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We Empower

50%

communities

More than half of SciAct teams focus on broadening participation of underserved communities.

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