NASA is reaching for the stars with the Artemis moon program, and it wants YOU to be a part of this historic mission! The next big milestone? The crewed Artemis II test flight, aimed for launch in 2026, will take astronauts on a journey around the moon and back to Earth. But before that adventure begins, NASA is inviting global artists and designers to contribute a unique zero gravity indicator—a plush item that will fly alongside the crew inside the Orion capsule.

What is a Zero Gravity Indicator?

According to NASA's recent announcement, zero gravity indicators are small plush toys that float inside spacecraft, giving a visual cue when the vehicle has entered space. These adorable companions are carefully designed to float freely without drifting away, making them not just cute but functional too!

Join the Moon Mascot Challenge!

In collaboration with the crowdsourcing platform Freelancer, NASA has launched the Moon Mascot design challenge, looking for "original designs that symbolize the significance of NASA's Artemis campaign and the spirit of exploration and discovery." This could be your chance to create something that captures the imagination of both kids and adults alike!

To enter, designers must adhere to specific dimensions—no larger than 6 inches and under 0.75 pounds—and use approved materials like flame-resistant thread, faux fur, and polyester fiberfill. So, while you brainstorm your ideas, leave the paper and steel behind, and think soft and cuddly!

The deadline for submissions is set for May 27, and finalists will be announced by July 31, 2025. Not only will winners receive recognition, but there are also monetary prizes up for grabs in different categories!

A Legacy of Mascots: Snoopy in Space

The previous Artemis mission, Artemis I, featured a delightful zero gravity indicator: a stuffed Snoopy clad in an orange spacesuit! This beloved character, created by cartoonist Charles Schulz, has a long history with NASA, dating back to the Apollo missions. With over 50 years of inspiring enthusiasm for human space exploration, Snoopy has cemented his place as a favorite mascot.

As Artemis II approaches, the excitement builds—four astronauts will embark on the mission, including NASA's Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, alongside Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen. Yet, plans have encountered a few bumps, delaying the launch to April 2026 due to concerns about the Orion capsule's heat shield that cracked during a previous uncrewed test flight.

Get Involved!

NASA is dedicated to moving forward despite uncertainties, and the mascot challenge represents a unique opportunity for the public to engage with the Artemis program. So ask yourself: What will your mascot design embody? A rocket? An astronaut? A whimsical piece of space cheese? The possibilities are endless! Your creativity could help spark excitement for the next generation of astronauts.

Don't delay—start dreaming up your designs today and submit your creations to be part of history! Who knows? Your plushie could take its place among the stars!