Explore, Discover, Do

Get involved with the AWE mission! Perform mission challenges, explore AWEsome activities, and track the mission on the ISS.

Atmospheric gravity waves seen as ripples in the clouds.

Mission Challenges

Catch a Wave!

Waves are all around us. You may see rippling waves in the clouds, notice them when you walk, bike, and hike, or even make one in a rain puddle or pond. Observe the waves you see and make note of their energy, direction, and effects. Catch a wave in a photo and share your observations with family and friends.

Build an AWEsome Instrument

Build a simple or complex AWE instrument of your own using your imagination and junk found around your space. Let your engineering ingenuity run wild! Focus on the outside shape of the instrument that protects the telescopes and electronics. Then share your instrument with family and friends.

Explore Earth’s Atmosphere

Earth’s atmosphere is important to the AWE mission. Use your knowledge and creativity to draw, paint, or create an AWEsome work of art that shows Earth’s atmosphere. Include its layers and anything else you think belongs there. Then have an exhibit with family and friends.

Countdown to Launch

Prepare for mission blast off by becoming NASA’s Virtual Guest and building a countdown wheel! Gather your family and friends and explore what it takes to launch a rocket into space. Learn about basic countdown steps, the meaning of terms like “T-minus” and “L-minus,” and how you can be a virtual guest at the AWE launch.

Build a Robotic Arm

After AWE’s AMTM docks on the ISS, a robotic arm extracts it from the launch vehicle and attaches it to the ISS. See how the robotic arm works and build your own to re-enact this impressive technology.

Become a Citizen Scientist

After the AMTM is mounted on the ISS, it begins collecting image data. AWE’s science and research teams will analyze the data to learn more about space weather. Learn how to gather data and become a citizen scientist by participating in a variety of fun research activities.